Heed Hot Tub Health Warnings
November 4, 2009 by Marijke Durning, RN
Filed under Prevention
We all know that swimming pools can be dangerous, but some people aren’t so aware of hot tubs and their potential dangers – for both adults children. Sadly, there are injuries and deaths because of hot tubs, so it pays to pay heed to the warnings. They’re not just there for the sake of it and we have to always remember that a hot tub is not the same thing as a swimming pool.
Understandably, one of the biggest dangers is drowning, particularly in children under six years old but, it’s an astounding 73% of injuries that occur in people who are older than 16 years. Here are some other facts according to a study just published in the online issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine:
- 28% of injuries are lacerations (cuts)
- 27% of the time, the legs and feet are injured
- 26% of the time, the head is injured
- 2/3 of injuries among children under 6 years are near-drownings
- children between 6-12 years were more likely to be injured by jumping and diving in or around a hot tub
- most serious injuries among children include suction drains (such as entanglement, body entrapment and drowning)
Hot tubs can be a great source of relaxation and entertainment for the family. Relaxing outdoors, talking together, just spending time as a family can be a wonderful time and provide great memories. But it’s important to stay safe and not invite tragedy into your life.
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Image: PhotoXpress.com
