How To Be Safe In A Hot Tub By Staying “HOT”

HOT is an acronym that was created to help you stay safe from recreation water illnesses (RWIs) while using a hot tub. It doesn’t matter if you own the hot tub or not, you can help prevent the spread of RWIs and avoid catching them by simply following these tips.

Who Should Apply This Infomation?

Anyone who owns or uses a hot tub at any time should be aware of the information given in this article so they can keep themselves safe from RWIs.

What Do You Do If…?

1. You own the hot tub.

Maintain the proper hygiene of your hot tub. Keep chlorine levels well regulated and clean the tub when needed. Make sure your equipment is in working order. Regulate the water temperature. You are responsible for the safety of your hot tub, so be wise and follow the HOT tips!

2. You are visiting a hot tub.

Pay attention to the information given below that tells you how to stay safe when using a hot tub.

Follow These “HOT” Tips For Safe In A Hot Tub:

1. Heed

This refers to the need to heed rules for safety in a hot tub. Usually these rules include the following: Don’t use a hot tub if you have been suffering from diarrhea. Children under 5 years of age should not use hot tubs at all. Pregnant women should check with a doctor before using the hot tub. Don’t drink while using the tub. Always shower off before getting into a hot tub. Do not swallow any of the hot tub water. Try not to exceed the maximum number of recommended swimmers at one time.

2. Observe

Look around the hot tub area for cleanliness as well as into the hot tub itself. Does it smell strongly of chlorine? This can mean there’s a problem with the maintenance of the hot tub. Ideally there should be very little chlorine odor coming from the pool water.
Check to see if the sides of the tub are sticky or slippery. They should ideally be smooth and clean.
See if the temperature of the hot tub is above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the maximum temperature a hot tub should be. If it is higher than this, do not use the hot tub.
Check chlorine levels with chlorine test strips to see if the levels are proper for use.

3. Talk

Ask the hot tub owners or pool staff questions about the hot tub before using it. Questions can include: What was the last health inspection grade? Are chlorine levels and pH levels monitored at least twice daily? Are the trained hot tub staff members around over the weekends when the hot tub is experiencing the most use?
All of these questions are relevant to how safe in a hot tub is to swim in. A poorly maintained hot tub has a greater risk of spreading RWIs.

Summary

Hot tubs can be a source of RWIs and a safety risk. In order to lower the risks and help to prevent or avoid RWIs, you should always keep the HOT tips in mind and practice safe hot tub use!