Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Most childhood drownings occur in swimming pools. When you go to public or private pools, make sure that your children are supervised closely. And make sure that they are familiar with pool safety rules. Hot tubs and spas often are an overlooked drowning danger for children. A child can fall into the water and drown. Hair can get tangled in drains or jets. And body parts can get trapped. Consider keeping hot tubs and spas off-limits to young children. Talk to your doctor before you allow children younger than age 5 to use them. If you allow children in a hot tub or spa, take proper precautions and talk to your children about possible hazards. If you have a pool or hot tub where you live, find out if the drains and other parts meet current safety standards. Check with the place where you bought the pool or hot tub, or ask a pool operator. If you have a pool at your home, use these tips to help prevent drowning tragedies. Every second counts in drowning accidents. Young children attracted to the toys can fall in when reaching for them. The alarm should sound anytime the door is opened unexpectedly. Always keep the pool area secure to prevent drowning. This is a motor-powered device that acts as a barrier over the water. This includes a life ring with a rope and a safety hook. Secure steps and ladders to prevent an unsupervised child from climbing into the pool. Alarms that can be used with pool covers are the best choice. Fences should be at least 4 ft (1.2 m) high, with self-closing and self-latching gates. Latches should be out of a young child's reach. There are things you can do to help protect children from an accident or drowning related to hot tubs and spas. Never leave a child alone. If you get out of the hot tub or spa, have them get out with you. Hot tub and spa jets and drains can suck hair in, trapping a child underwater. Explain to children that hot tubs and spas aren't swimming pools or places for active play. If a drain cover is missing or broken, shut down the spa until the drain cover is repaired or replaced. Drowning has occurred from extremely hot water. Hot water can cause drowsiness and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke is another danger. Current as of: October 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: October 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Child Safety: Drowning Prevention in Pools and Hot Tubs
Overview
Pool safety
Hot tub safety
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: October 24, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardChild Safety: Drowning Prevention in Pools and Hot Tubs
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.