Spa Safety – tips for Florida’s parents and children

There are many people who either own a spa or take their kids to the spa. Far to often we hear about a day that was supposed to be full of fun, turn out to be a nightmare for a family. In the light staggering number of deaths in Florida from drownings and spa accidents, the dangers of using a spa are not obvious. Drowning usually occurs quickly and silently. Two minutes following submersion, a child will lose consciouness. Irreversible brain damage occurs after four to six minutes and determines the immediate and long-term survival of a child.

Here are some precautions to keep in mind if you own spa:
- Avoid problems with a single drain by installing a second one to disburse suction.
- Install safety dome on flat drains.
- Instruct anyone with long hair not to get in near a drain, and tell anyone who uses a spa not to stick fingers, toes, or other body parts into the drain.
- place power switch nearby so it can be reached quickly in case of an emergency.
- If your spa is indoors, lock the door to the room or use a cover that locks.
- Closely supervise children even if they know how to swim.
- If you are concerned about a spa’s safety check with your local county and/or city building inspector.