Your new above-ground hot tub is going to be both an exciting and relaxing addition to your home. And the best way to ensure it stays fun and stress-free is to have good safety practices regarding it. What should your hot tub safety plan look like? Here are a few areas to address and how you can keep them safe for all users and the hot tub itself.
Safe Hot Tub Location
Where will your hot tub be installed? What conditions might you encounter while coming and going that could create safety issues? First, install good lighting since hot tubs are most often used in the darker hours. Many homeowners use motion sensors for safety along with accent lighting to set the mood.
The path and stairs should also be made from non-slip materials. Remember, everyone will be wet and water can easily slosh onto the stairs and pathways. Talk with a pool or hot tub pro about the best flooring and stair materials for wet environments. You may also want to use non-skid mats, especially during colder months when snow and ice might form on pathways.
A short, direct path from the house is usually best for the hot tub. Not only will you and your guests get more use out of the hot tub year-round, but a short path also means fewer potential tripping or falling hazards.
Safe Storage
Your hot tub will require maintenance and repairs as well as some accessories. Some of these can be dangerous if not stored properly. If possible, store things like chemicals and testing supplies separately from the tub itself. Designate a locked storage location for these—one tall enough and well-constructed so that kids and pets cannot accidentally get into them.
Giving all your supplies their own, proper home ensures they never get underfoot and cause any hazards for those using the hot tub. It also protects the equipment from being exposed to the elements and possibly shortening its lifespan.
Safe Hot Tub Use
Now that you’ve set up your hot tub with safety in mind, complement this by being safety-minded while using it. In general, your household and friends should follow swimming pool guidelines around the hot tub as well. This means no running or playing around it. Parents can be a good example for kids by practicing safety themselves.
Be cautious about enjoying cocktails or wine while soaking in the hot tub, as alcohol can increase the chances of an unfortunate accident. And because many hot tub owners like to have food and beverages while relaxing, you may want to get a spa-friendly set of glassware and dishware made from materials other than glass. This protects both users and the hot tub itself from broken glass.
Remember to keep a safe temperature in your hot tub per manufacturer and spa professionals’ instructions. And shorter periods of soaking in the heat are often better than longer periods. So take a break, perhaps integrating the hot tub into other outdoor entertainment options such as a swimming pool to avoid overuse.
Safe When Unoccupied
As much as you do use it, every hot tub also spends much of its life unoccupied. Keeping it and your family safe starts with choosing a sturdy, locking cover. Simple and safe covers are one of the biggest advantages that above-ground hot tubs have over in-ground versions. A cover lift even does the work for you. Always replace the cover after use and make sure the lock is secure.
Depending on where your hot tub is installed, you may also want to set up perimeter safety precautions similar to those with pools. One simple trick may be to remove the stairs when the hot tub is not in use so that kids and pets can’t easily access it. A pool fence and/or pool alarms could also be a good idea for parents.
Safe Maintenance
Finally, set up a good maintenance routine. Modern hot tubs are remarkably easy to maintain and service, but it does still call for diligence. Learn the simple hallmarks of clean and safe water, as well as how to fix it when the chemicals may not be in balance. Circulate the water on the right schedule, either manually or automatically. Clean filters and drain the hot tub as advised by the manufacturer or a hot tub expert.
If you have any concerns about the hot tub, be proactive about working with a quality repair service. Addressing small issues prevents them from growing into bigger ones which could harm the hot tub or its users.
Helpful Professional Advice
Want more tips for creating a safe, healthy, and comfortable hot tub experience? Start by meeting with the team at
Marquis Hot Tubs. We’ll put our decades of hot tub experience to work for you. Call today to get answers to your questions, or stop by one of our retail locations throughout the Pacific Northwest to see our collection of beautiful hot tubs.
