The spa treatments are largely beneficial. They help people relax, reduce stress and are helpful in alleviating many muscular and neurological problems. Unfortunately, a spa can also be a dangerous place if you're not careful.
In the United States, nearly 300 children under five drown each year in spas. Thousands more will rush to the emergency room or require hospitalization. Many suffer from disability and permanent brain damage as a result of these accidents.
Spas with drains that are guilty, missing or broken covers are potential dangerous places. They can lock their hair, limbs, jewelry and clothing. Since 1990, there have been 43 incidents of hair entanglement, as the Committee on Consumer Product Safety (CPSC). Of that number, 12 people were killed when their hair was sucked into the drain of the spa.
According to the CPSC, an accident of hair entanglement occurs when a guy gets his hair caught in the drain or cover the drain. The suction can sometimes be strong enough to detain a person, especially small children, under water. Most of these deaths occur when children are playing a game of hold your breath.
At least 74 people were involved in accidents trapping the body due to the strong suction of the drains in the spa. This has caused two cases of disembowelment and 13 deaths.
Warm temperatures are another cause for alarm since they can cause drowsiness, lead to unconsciousness and result in drowning. The heat death of the movement is also common with raised body temperatures. Several deaths of hot water (110 degrees Fahrenheit) have been registered with the CPSC.
To make your spa experience pleasant and avoid unnecessary accidents, the CPSC recommends the following safety measures:
Use a locked safety cover when the spa is stopped and do not leave children alone there. Adult supervision is a necessity. Make sure the spa has covered the drain of the anti-trapping to reduce the risk of entrapment of hair or body. If you are unsure, call a professional to check your spa. Be on the lookout for cracked or damaged covers the drain. For added safety, do not let children play near the drain cover.
The "pools and spas are attractive to children, and children should be kept away from them the absence of adequate supervision. A fence, wall or natural barrier / totally artificial to include your pool or spa. All gates or doors with access to the pool or spa must have a spring lock, self-closing and self-locking mechanism that protects against unauthorized entry and use. (The closure on the inside must be accessible to children or young children), "said the national institute of spa and pool.
To prevent heat stroke, make sure the water temperature is kept at 104 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Pregnant women and young children should consult a doctor before using a spa. Avoid drinking alcohol while at a spa.
