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6 Safety Considerations for Your Home Spa
The spa is probably one of the best inventions we have learned from the Europeans. It's relaxing, refreshing and when used properly, can be quite healthy. However, it does involve equipment that can cause certain hazards and health risks. Here are certain safety reminders and considerations you should keep in mind when using your home spa:
The risk of drowning
The home spa poses nearly the same risk in drowning as a swimming pool, especially with very young children. To avoid this, build your home spa in a safe location and never allow children near it unless they are supervised. To ensure safety, use a spa cover with a locking device after use.
Slipping
Use non-skid floors or surfaces around the spa and install a towel bar nearby so you can dry your hands and feet immediately. Lighting should be relaxing but provide adequate illumination at the same time.
Most experts also recommend using the spa with a companion. Soaking alone may be more relaxing but having someone around may come in handy if one of you needs help.
Overheating
One safety hazard that home spas present is overheating. Install a thermometer and make sure it's working. To prevent hyperthermia, a condition where body temperature rises, maintain water temperature at about 100 degrees F to 104 degrees F.
Hyperthermia can cause a feeling of sleepiness that can lead to unconsciousness. If you slip, you can even drown. Once you start feeling sleepy or uncomfortable, get out of the tub immediately. Don't stay too long in the water; 15 minutes of soaking should be enough. If children are using the spa, let them stay for only 10 minutes or less and keep the water temperature at 95 degrees F or lower.
Avoid drinking alcohol or taking drugs while using your home spa. Your sense of balance may be affected and you could slip and fall or hurt your head.
Electrocution
Water and electric appliances don't mix. If you have hair dryers, electric hair curlers, cordless phones and other electric device inside the spa room, keep them at a safe distance from the tub.
Chemical use
Chemicals and additives used in your home spa should be kept safely away, in a dry, cool, dark, well ventilated area where only adults can reach them. Install a storage cabinet for this purpose. Use the chemicals according to manufacturer's directions.
Home spa suction
Preferably, a home spa should have two suction drains for every pump. This will minimize the suctioning power of the drain so there is no danger of getting pulled in. Ensure that these drains are working efficiently for your home spa safety.
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