Swim spas are fantastic alternatives to standard swimming pools. They combine the fabulous benefits of low-impact water exercise and the heat therapy of a hot tub. Swim spas offer endless opportunities for fun, fitness, and relaxation.
However, it is always important to practice water safety when enjoying any body of water, including swim spas.
May is National Water Safety Month, which means it is the perfect time to review water safety tips and guidelines. Continue reading for useful swim spa safety tips so that you, your family, and your friends can enjoy your swim spa confidently.
1. Actively supervise children when they are in or around the swim spa.
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, especially around water. Never leave children unattended in or near the water. Never allow children to enter the swim spa without an adult or guardian present.
2. No diving! No exceptions! Always enter and exit your swim spa deliberately and safely.
3. Ensure all guests know how to swim or have direct access to a floatation device while enjoying the swim spa. The only way to become a confident swimmer is to spend time swimming in the water! One of the great things about swim spas is that they can be far less intimidating than swimming in the ocean, in standard swimming pools, or in lakes. This allows swim spa users to work on their swimming skills in a more controlled environment. If a guest or family member is not a strong swimmer, make sure they always have a flotation device or a floating pool toy nearby.
4. Encourage children to use spa-safe toys. Toys like inflatable balls, floats, and noodles can add a ton of fun to your swim spa experience! Avoid allowing children to play with toys that sink in your swim spa. Sinking toys may encourage diving, which is not allowed in the swim spa, and submerging, which may be unsafe for many children.
5. If children under the age of five are enjoying the swim spa, keep the water temperature below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Encourage them to take breaks to cool off every fifteen minutes. Also, encourage all swimmers to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated while using the swim spa.
6. Always keep your swim spa covered with a locked safety cover when it is not in use. Observing this rule will completely eliminate the possibility of unsupervised swimming, or an accidental slip and fall into the swim spa, and that’s a great feeling.
7. If your swim spa is not flush with a deck or platform, consider installing a railing and stairs. Railings and stairs will allow users to safely enter and exit the swim spa.
8. Store swim spa chemicals in a safe location. According to the CDC, nearly 5,000 people wind up in the emergency room each year due to the misuse of swim spa and pool chemicals. Keep your family and pets safe and store chemicals out of reach.
As summer swiftly approaches, everyone should take a moment to consider water safety. National Water Safety Month (“NWSM”) is celebrating 20 years of water awareness and swim safety this year. It is an annual reminder of the importance of water competency.
Safety Recap
It is imperative to be water smart, have basic swimming skills, and know how to help others if they are struggling in the water. A swim spa is a fantastic addition to anyone’s home, as it offers users the opportunity to become stronger swimmers in a safe, more secure environment. With a little vigilance, your family and friends will be able to safely enjoy your swim spa for years to come!
If you are thinking of purchasing a swim spa for your home, you must visit The Hot Tub Store in Rochester Hills for an extensive selection and great customer service. We are an experienced and reputable supplier of innovative and luxurious swim spas and hot tubs including Master Spas products. Have a budget but want special performance features? We have the swim spa for you. With so many models and options to choose from, you won’t be settling.
Visit our hot tub store to browse the Michael Phelps Signature Series as well as H2X for features that deliver above and beyond. Our spa professionals are here to help, give you a Free Estimate and help you get started on your backyard retreat!