The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub

An Essential Safety Guide—Mandatory Reading

The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub

Nordic Hot Tubs

It is your responsibility to enforce safety rules.

This booklet has been prepared byThe Pool & Hot Tub Alliance(PHTA) with assistance from theCanadian Hot Tub Council toinform you about general safe use,operation, and maintenance of yourspa or hot tub.

It represents the current knowledgeof the industry but is not intended to cover all aspects of spa and hottub design, operation, installation,and maintenance. Refer to specificmanufacturers’ instructions for more details on product installation,use, maintenance, and safety andkeep them along with this bookletfor ready use and reference. Be sure to pass them along to futureowners or renters.

Spas and hot tubs are intended toprovide many hours of enjoyment.Just as with any product, you andonly you can determine if your spaor hot tub is used sensibly. The keyto safe use of a product is a sensibleand informed consumer.

Preface

The Sensible Way to Enjoy Your Spa or Hot Tub

Congratulations on being a spa orhot tub owner. Your spa or hot tubcan give you, your family, and guestsmany years of fun and relaxation.

This booklet contains importantsafety information you should knowabout operating and maintainingyour spa or hot tub. It will help you understand some of the causesof possible spa or hot tub-relatedaccidents and how to prevent them.It is your responsibility to be surethat you, your family, and guests use the spa or hot tub sensibly.

In addition to this booklet, it isimportant to read and keep all of the operating instructions,owner’s manuals, and warranties for your spa or hot tub and itsequipment. Clearly understand the specifics of safe operation andproper maintenance, which thesepublications provide. Keep thesematerials on file for your own reference, review them seasonally,and pass them along to future owners or renters.

©2020 The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

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By carefully reading thisbooklet, you may save the lifeof a child or prevent serious harm to yourself, family members, or friends. It is your responsibility to learn and understand safety principles and rules. To ensure safety, every spa and hot tub owner must read this booklet.

Good Reasons for Thinking Safety First 2

Drowning Prevention Tips 3

Guidelines for Using Spas and Hot Tubs 6

• Supervision 6

• Soaking Safety 7

• Exercise 9

• Entertaining 9

Overall Safe Operation and Maintenance of Your Spa or Hot Tub 11

• Equipment In and Around the Spa or Hot Tub 11

• Portable Spas—Special Considerations 16

• Chemicals 17

• Electrical Maintenance 19

• Recommended Use of Professionals 19

• One More Warning on Drowning:Children Aren’t Waterproof 20

• For More Information 21

Table of Contents

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Informed consumers are concernedabout safety because serious injuriesand even death can result fromunsafe use of spas and hot tubs and associated products. Here aresome examples:

DROWNING – According to the U.S.Consumer Product SafetyCommission (CPSC) at least 240 children under 5 years olddrown in pools, spas, and hot tubs.Most of the cases involve residen-tial pools. Drowning remains thesecond leading cause of injury-related death among children ages1 to 14 in all bodies of waternationwide in the U.S.

ELEVATED BODY TEMPERATURE –Soaking for too long at higherwater temperatures can elevatebody temperature and the temperature of internal organsbeyond safe limits. Pregnantwomen, infants, and children are especially sensitive to high tem-peratures, as are many people withcertain medical conditions such asdiabetes, heart conditions, and thosetaking certain pres cription medi-cines.

ENTRAPMENT – Suction from non-complying outlet/cover grates anddrains can cause entrapment ofhair or body parts and drowning. Ifthe drain cover is missing,

Good Reasons for Thinking Safety First

broken, not securely fastened, ordoes not comply with the latest edi-tion of ANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017Standard for Suction Outlet Fitting

Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools,

Spas and Hot Tubs, shut down thespa or hot tub until the drain coveris replaced. Consult a spa or hot tubprofessional.

BURNS/FIRES – Chemicals neededfor clean, sanitized water are poten-tially harmful when stored or usedimproperly. If mixed with other chemicals or elements,explosions and fire can occur.

ELECTRICAL SHOCK/ELECTRO -CUTION – Water is an excellent con-ductor of electricity. Electricalshock or electrocution can occur ina spa or hot tub if live electricalcurrent (including current from a telephone) comes into contactwith the water.

CUTS, CONTUSIONS, AND ABRASIONS– These injuries can occur in thespa or hot tub environment as aresult of horseplay, improper use ofequipment or failure to follow manufacturers’ instructionsor warnings. Serious trauma or dis-abling injuries also may occur.

You can help ensure that your familyand guests are not victims of any ofthese unfortunate accidents.

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Drowning Prevention Tips

Drowning prevention information is not for “someone else.” It is foryou. Because only by increasedawareness and effort can we reducesuch tragedies. Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidentaldeath for infants and children five and under.

In addition to the Pool & Hot TubAlliance, organizations such as theAmerican Red Cross, the NationalDrowning Prevention alliance,Think First, the Centers for DiseaseControl, Young Men’s ChristianAssociation (YMCA) and theNational Rehabilitation Hospital,recognize that constant adultsupervision is the primary element inan integrated approach to drowningprevention.

While supervision is the key toaccomplishing the objective ofreducing the number of submersionincidents, it is well known that, at times, children may do the unexpected, catching their supervi-sors off guard. Because being caughtoff guard does occur and there may be a lapse in supervision, The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance(PHTA) has developed a ModelBarrier Code, which has beenapproved by the American NationalStandards Institute (ANSI) asANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013)Model Barrier Code for Residential

Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.This Model Barrier Code establishes

layers of protection to complementthe requirement for constant, com-petent adult supervision of youngchildren around aquatic environ-ments. Remember, these layers ofprotection may only delay and maynot prevent a toddler from enteringthe spa or hot tub area. Supervision isthe only way to prevent an accident.

Children are naturally attracted to swimming pools and associatedpool toys. To prevent drownings and other serious injuries, you must keep children away from spas,hot tubs, and all bodies of water in the absence of adult supervision.Following are some safety tips thatcan help save young lives. For moreinformation, request the brochurestitled “Children Aren’t Waterproof” and “Layers of Protection” from The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance,phta.org.

Spas and hot tubs are fun—but along with the fun comesserious responsibility. Be surethat good times are safe times.Establish rules and enforcethem.

• Never leave a child alone or out of your eyesight in or near the spa or hot tub—not even for a second. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO SUBSTITUTE FOR CONSTANT,COMPETENT ADULT SUPERVISION.(See Supervision section.)

• Never leave children with caretak-ers or supervisors unless they are capable and responsible in the spaor hot tub environment. Appoint a “designated child watcher.”

• If you must leave the spa or hot tub area, even for one minute, take your child with you. One lapsein supervision can spell tragedy.

• Remove vegetation and otherobstacles to ensure a clear view ofthe spa or hot tub. Be aware ofbubbles; they may hinder visibility.

• Do not allow anyone of any age to soak without a “watcher” near-by. Examples of good safety behav-ior by adults are important to edu-cating and safeguarding children.

• Never consider children water-safedespite their swimming skills, previous instruction, or experience.Many professionals warn that these lessons may provide a falsesense of security to a child’s familyand not actually prepare a child for surviving a true emergency.

• Floating toys attract youngsters.Remove toys from the spa or hottub when not in use. Your child can easily fall into the spa or hottub while trying to retrieve one.

• Keep toys, particularly baby walk-ers, tricycles, or wheel toys, awayfrom inground spas or hot tubs. Achild playing with these could acci-dentally fall into the water.

• Do not rely on plastic inner tubes,inflatable arm bands, or otherflotation devices to prevent acci-dents.

• When the spa or hot tub is not inuse, the owner is responsible forsafeguarding it.

• Make certain that all doors andgates leading from the house to the spa or hot tub area are keptshut and locked/latched wheneversoaking cannot be supervised.

• Make sure any locks or latches are above the reach of toddlers to protect against unauthorizedentry and use.

• A fence, wall, safety cover, or natu-ral barrier shall completely encloseyour spa or hot tub to keep chil-dren and unauthorized guests out.If access gates are used, they shouldhave a self-latching or self-closingmechanism.

• Do not place objects (e.g., chairs or tables) near the spa or hot tubfence that could allow a youngsterto climb over.

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• If you use a spa or hot tub cover as a safety cover, it must complywith ASTM F1346-96 Standard

Performance Specifications for

Safety Covers and Labeling

Requirements for All Covers for

Swimming Pools, Spas, and Hot

Tubs. Also, carefully read the man-ufacturer’s directions for safe use.Always completely remove the coverbefore using your spa or hot tub. Besure to test the temperature of thewater after removing the cover toprevent scalding. A cover on a spa orhot tub can greatly increase the temperature of the water. Drain any standing water from the surface of your spa or hot tub cover (e.g., by using a water pump). Even a small amount of water may be sufficient for an infant or small child to drown. Be especially alertfor potential drowning accidents if you use any lightweight, floatingspa or hot tub covers (e.g., solar or insulating covers). These are not safety covers and no one should walk or crawl on them.

• To avoid hair and body suctionentrapment, never use a spa or hot tub if any of the cover/gratesoutlets are non-complying,missing, broken, or not securelyfastened. The suction outletcover/grate must comply withANSI/APSP/ICC-16 2017 Standard

for Suction Outlet Fitting

Assemblies (SOFA) for Use in Pools,

Spas and Hot Tubs. Consult a spaor hot tub professional.

• Do not permit playful screamingfor help (false alarms) that mightmask a real emergency.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

1. Dial the local emergency telephone numbers (9-1-1, orthe appropriate 10-digit num-ber for Emergency MedicalService (EMS), Fire, or Police).It is advisable to install a tele-phone (or use a cordless tele-phone) in the spa or hot tub area.

2. Give your: A. Name, B. Location, and C. Telephone number you

are calling from.

3. Tell what happened and howmany people need help.

4. Don’t hang up the phone until after the emergency professional does.

Adults in the family should be trainedin cardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR). CPR is the combination of rescue breathing and artificial circulation for victims of respiratoryor cardiac arrest as a result ofdrowning, heart attack, or othercauses. CPR training is availablethrough the local chapters of theAmerican Red Cross, Canadian RedCross, or the American HeartAssociation. Adults should also know how to administer mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and otherlifesaving techniques.

PREVENTING AN EMERGENCY IS THEBEST PREPARATION: Never leave a child alone in or near a pool, spa,hot tub, or any other body of water!

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Guidelines for Using Spas and Hot Tubs

Take special precautions with youngchildren who use spas or hot tubs.Spas and hot tubs are deep enoughfor children to drown in a matter ofminutes! Such accidents are usuallysilent and often without any signs of distress at the surface. Bubblesmay obscure visibility. Also, childrenmay become ill from overheating.

As a spa or hot tub owner, you maybe legally liable for the safety of all persons who use your facility. You have the ultimate responsibility. Be sure your insurance policy isupdated to include ownership ofyour spa or hot tub.

However, facing ownership responsi-bilities does not mean taking the fun out of using your spa or hot tub. If you know about proper safetypractices and use good judgment,you will find that the benefits of a spa or hot tub can far outweigh the risks. Here are some guidelinesfor using your spa or hot tub.

Supervision

Supervision is a key element in gettingmaximum, safe enjoyment fromyour spa or hot tub. One individualmust assume primary responsibilityfor supervising the spa or hot tub.Appoint a “designated child watcher.”The supervisor must study the con-tents of this booklet as well as anyinstructions from the spa or hot tub manufacturer and be thoroughlyfamiliar with all facets of the safeoperation and maintenance of thespa or hot tub. He or she will takeresponsibility for communicatingsafety information to all personswho enter the spa or hot tub area. It is a good idea to designate a back-up for times when the primarysupervisor is unavailable.

The supervisor or “designated childwatcher” is responsible for enforcing“house rules” for your spa or hot tub.Draw up these rules from informationin this booklet and other safety andmaintenance information providedby the manufacturer or dealer. Theserules should cover such things as the length of time allowed for a soak,consumption of alcoholic beverages,maintenance, use of electrical appli-ances, and the handling of chemi-cals. Establish rules immediately.Write them in simple language andpost them where they are easy tosee—near the spa or hot tub. Use thesafety information in this booklet tohelp develop your safety rules.

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These rules should be clearlycommunicated to and understood by all persons, young and old, who useyour spa or hot tub. Most importantly,consistently enforce these rules.Never leave the spa or hot tub unsupervised. When supervision is not available, even for a moment,close the spa or hot tub.

It makes sense to pay special attentionto educating children about safetyprecautions. Teach your childrenabout equipment maintenance andproper upkeep of the spa or hot tub.As they get older, your children willlearn from your example that theymust respect the spa or hot tub andsurrounding area and actresponsibly.

It also makes sense for thesupervisor and other responsiblefamily members to be trained inartificial respiration and/orcardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR). Instruction is available fromlocal community organizations suchas the American Red Cross.

Soaking Safety

Soaking in your spa or hot tub isrelaxing, warm, and wonderful. The hot water soothes your body andrejuvenates your spirits. But that same hot water holds somepotential dangers.

• Persons with heart disease, diabetes,high or low blood pressure, or anyserious illness as well as pregnantwomen and persons with any doubtabout sensitivity to higher tempera-tures, should not enter a spa or hottub without prior consultation withtheir doctor.

• Before entering, look at the water in your spa or hot tub. If there is cloudiness or foaming, or if a“locker room” or strong chlorinesmell is present, the water needstreatment. Soaking in such watergreatly increases your chances ofgetting a skin rash (pseudomonas).Be sure to maintain the water properly. Ask your spa or hot tubprofessional for guidance.

• People with skin, ear, genital, orother body infections, open sores, orwounds should not use the spa or hot tub because of the possibility of spreading infection.

• Shower with soap and water beforeand after using the spa or hot tub.Showering before use washes awaymany of the common skin bacteriaand removes lotions, deodorants,creams, etc. Perspiration and lotionswill reduce the effectiveness of thedisinfectant and lessen the ability of the filter to work efficiently.

Don’t soak for longer than 15 minutes in 104° F (40°C)water. In lower temperatures(e.g., 98.6° F 37°C “normal”body temperature), most people can safely soak forlonger periods.

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attack, or injury due to passing outand falling.

• As with alcohol, the combined useof certain prescribed medicines and hot water soaking can be dangerous. Never use a spa or hottub while using or after using narcotics or other drugs that maycause sleepiness or drowsiness or raise or lower blood pressure.With any drug or medication, consult with your doctor aboutpotentially harmful effects fromcombined use of the drug and hot water soaking. Never use a spa or hot tub if you are underthe influence of drugs.

• It is best not to soak immediatelyafter eating a heavy meal.

• Keep an accurate thermometer in the spa or hot tub at all times to monitor the water temperature.Be sure you check the water temperature before entering andwhile in the spa or hot tub.

• Do not try to adjust or touchequipment such as pumps, heaters,or electrical appliances while youare in the spa or hot tub, or whilestanding in water, unless designedas such and recommended by the manufacturer.

• Enter the spa or hot tub slowly and cautiously. Be careful of yourfooting and allow your body to gradually get used to the watertemperature. Leave slowly as well,because your leg muscles may be sufficiently relaxed to make you a bit unsteady and you maybecome lightheaded.

• High water temperatures can elevate your body temperature andthe temperature of internal organsbeyond safe limits. (It’s almost likehaving a fever.) It is recommendedthat maximum water temperaturenever exceed 104° F (40° C).

• Soaking too long makes some peo-ple nauseated, dizzy, lightheaded,or faint. Don’t soak for more than 15 minutes at one sitting in 104° F(40° C) water. If you wish to soakfor a longer period of time in hightemperatures, leave the spa or hottub after 15 minutes, and then cooldown and return for another briefstay. In lower temperatures (e.g.,98.6° F, 37° C—normal body tem-perature), most people can com-fortably and safely soak for longerperiods at one sitting. If you haveany questions about what’s rightfor you and your family, consultwith your doctor.

• Never use the spa or hot tub whenyou are alone.

• Never use a spa or hot tub while usingor after using alcohol. Alcohol actsto expand your blood vessels andincrease your body temperature,much like soaking in hot waterdoes. Alcohol in your bloodstreamand soaking at the same time cre-ates a combined effect that can be damaging. The body temperaturemay accelerate to dangerous levelsquickly. The alcohol may causenausea, dizziness, or lightheaded-ness. The ultimate danger of com-bined alcohol consumption andhot water soaking is drowning dueto loss of consciousness, heart

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• Never allow children to use the spaor hot tub unsupervised. Childrenenjoy playing in water and may not understand the risks involvedin overexposure. Discretion isadvised in allowing children to usespas and hot tubs at all, since theiryoung bodies may not adjust wellto the high temperatures. If indoubt, check with your doctor forspecific recommendations for yourchildren given their age or othermedical considerations.

• If children will be using your spa or hot tub, explain to them that theycannot under any circumstances dive or jump into it. While a spa or hot tub may seem deep and large to a child, it is not designedfor jumping, diving, or underwaterswimming. Serious injury canresult if any of these are attempted.

Exercise

Your spa or hot tub is an excellentplace to relax your cares away. It is also good for “warming up” withsimple flexibility exercises. Theseexercises are easier in water becausewater effectively lessens the pull of gravity on your body. Be aware of the weakening effect of hot waterand don’t overdo it. If you wishto exercise in your spa or hot tub,lower the temperature to 80° F,26.6°C.

Before beginning any exercise pro-gram, consult your physician. Usegood judgment in monitoring your own exercise and supervising otherswho exercise in your spa or hot tub.

Entertaining

Your spa or hot tub can be the focalpoint for happy entertaining. Planahead to prevent accidents and injuriesto make your entertaining truly enjoy-able.

• Your family and guests are likely tobe intrigued by your new spa or hottub. Before they go in—and especial-ly if it is their first time in a hotwater facility—explain the safetyprecautions. Point out how to enterit and where the seats are located.

• Food and drink play an importantpart in your entertaining. Establishan area away from the spa or hot tubfor refreshments to prevent acciden-tal slips or falls caused by spills nearthe spa or tub or on the deck and toprevent debris from falling into thewater.

• More likely than not, your guestswill be barefooted while near the spaor hot tub. Use only unbreakabledishes, beverage containers, andutensils. Never use glass anywherenear the spa or hot tub. Brokenglass is invisible in water andextremely difficult to get out of thesupport system.

• Keep electrical appliances a signifi-cant distance from the spa or hottub. Don’t use extension cords. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter(GFCI) on any appliance that must benear the spa or hot tub. Where possi-ble, use battery-operated appliancesaround the spa or hot tub.Electrocution from appliances andtelephones in contact with water is areal danger.

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• If you use your spa or hot tub atnight, provide adequate lightingaround the facility.

• Alcohol consumption and spa andhot tub activities do not mix.Alcohol acts as a depressant. It can“slow you down” because it affectsthe part of the brain that exercisesrestraint and control. Alcohol caninstill false courage or “bravado,”leading people to try things theynormally would not. Therefore, per-sons who have been drinking alco-hol should not be allowed in the spa or hot tub and should be carefully supervised in the surrounding area.

• Prescription and over-the-countermedicines sometimes cause drowsiness or have other side effects.If you are taking prescription med-icine, check with your doctor beforeusing the spa or hot tub.

• Never allow anyone who has beendrinking alcohol or using drugs to go into the spa or hot tub. There is a great possibility that the person could drown or be seriously injured.

• Do not allow running on the deckor area around the spa or hot tub, asinjuries may occur from slips andfalls.

• If your spa or hot tub is outdoors,stay out of it during lightning or rainstorms, because of the possibility of electrocution fromthe lightning hitting the water.

• You have the bottom-line responsi -bility in entertaining. Use good judgment to help protect yourself,your family, and guests. If you areunsure of any person’s condition or abilities, prohibit them from using your spa or hot tub.Remember, you are in charge of your facility.

One More Word on Alcohol Consumption

Many people believe they have todrink a lot to be affected by alcohol.Studies show this just isn’t true. The alcohol in just one or two beerscan affect your judgment, eventhough you don’t feel or appear to be “drunk.’’ Even a small amount of alcohol can slow your reflexes.This is especially true if you are tired or on medication such as cold or allergy remedies or prescription drugs.

Entertaining can be both funand safe with a little planningand good judgment. Use onlyunbreakable dishes, beveragecontainers, and utensils. And never allow anyone to soak if under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

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COVERS (SOLAR AND INSULATING ONLY)

• Spa covers are a real benefit to you in terms of saving energyand keeping debris out of thespa. For safe installation, use,and maintenance of these covers,carefully read and follow thedirections of the manufacturer.These are not safety covers. Theydo not prevent drowning or entryinto the spa or hot tub. Avoid the possibility of someone beingtrapped under the spa cover bycompletely removing the coverbefore use. Safety spa covers mustbe in compliance with ASTMF1346-96 Standard Performance

Specifications for Safety Covers

and Labeling Requirements for

All Covers for Swimming Pools,

Spas, and Hot Tubs. For moreinformation, see DrowningPrevention Tips.

• Be sure to test the temperature of the water right after removingthe cover. A cover on a spa or hot tub can greatly increase thetemperature of the water.

• Forbid children from playing ontop of the spa or hot tub cover.

• Most spa and hot tub coversaren’t designed to support theweight of a child. Be especiallyalert if you use a lightweight,floating cover.

Keeping your spa or hot tub in topoperating form is very important to help ensure the safety of those whouse it and to protect your investment.Carefully read, understand, and followthe operating and maintenanceinstructions supplied by the spa or hot tub manufacturer and themanufacturers of associated products(e.g., chemicals). This booklet is not intended to replace informationsupplied by manufacturers. A goodgeneral rule is to visually inspect yourspa or hot tub area and equipmentregularly. If anything looks broken,worn, corroded, frayed, or not right,contact your spa or hot tub profes-sional for advice and repairs. A simple repair or replacement mayprevent an injury or save a life. Italso may prevent more serious orexpensive equipment problems.

Equipment In and Around the Spa or Hot Tub

There are many products that youwill buy to complement your spa or hot tub. Be aware of all precau-tions related to the installation, use, and maintenance of these products. Follow the manufacturers’instructions for use.

Overall Safe Operation and Maintenance of Your Spa or Hot Tub

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DECKS • A deck or patio around your spa

or hot tub can add real beautyand enjoyment. Be sure yourdeck or patio has a slip resistantsurface with adequate drainage.Overall, slips and falls constitutethe greatest number of accidentsinvolving water facilities. Keepthe deck or patio clean and clearof all debris. Check periodicallyfor any signs of wear and tear, which may make these surfaces hazardous.

• Insist that there be no running,pushing, or roughhousing near the spa or hot tub.

Layers of Protection

• Spas and hot tubs are attractive tochildren, and children must be keptaway from them in the absence ofadequate adult supervision. Layers of protection, such as a fence, wall,or natural barrier of sufficientheight, can help keep out childrenunder the age of five and otherunauthorized users. All gates ordoors giving access to the spa or hottub should have a self-closing andself-latching mechanism that pro-

Layers of protection such as a fence, wall, or natural barrier aroundyour outdoor spa or hot tub can help keep out children under the age of five and all other unauthorized users. If your spa or hot tub is indoors, lock the door to the room or have a locking safety cover in place when the facility is not in use.______________________________________________________

tects against unauthorized entry anduse. (The inside latch should beabove the reach of toddlers oryoung children.) Check with yourstate, providence and local govern-ment to learn their specific legalrequirements concerning barriersand other layers of protectionaround spas or hot tubs. If noneexist, contact the PHTA for theANSI approved Model Barrier Code(ANSI/APSP/ICC-8 2005 (R2013)Model Barrier Code for Residential

Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot

Tubs) and the PHTA brochure“Layers of Protection.” You cannot be too cautious.If your spa or hot tub is indoors, lockthe door to the room or have a coverthat locks to keep out children andother unauthorized users.

• Alarms similar to burglar alarmsmay be placed on the doors to alertcaretakers of unauthorized entry tothe spa or hot tub area. All fencescan be climbed by children givensufficient time. Do not assume thatyour spa or hot tub is safe fromentry because you have a fence. Afence may lull you into a falsesense of security. Only competent,constant adult supervision can pre-vent drowning accidents. All layersof protection must be kept in goodworking order at all times.

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HANDRAILS, STEPS, AND LADDERS • Handrails, steps, and ladders

must be securely mounted.Routinely inspect them to ensurethat they are firmly in place.Check for broken treads, sharpedges, and loose bolts and nuts.Keep handrails, steps, and lad-ders unobstructed for use. Don’t use them for hanging towels orother items.

• If your spa or hot tub has aremovable ladder for entry,remember to remove it when thefacility is not to be used or whenno supervision is available.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS • To safely use electricity in and

around your spa or hot tub, youmust have equipment expresslydesigned for this purpose.Consult with a licensed electricianfor help in correctly equippingyour spa or hot tub area for electricity. Ask the licensed elec-trician to be aware of any localelectrical codes that apply inyour area. Ensure that your spaor hot tub and its equipment are designed and installed toconform to the National ElectricalCode for spas/hot tubs and related equipment. Electricalwork is not for do-it-yourselfersor other amateurs. Contract with a licensed electrician to make sure that all of your outside electrical lines (not justthose for the spa or hot tub andits equipment and accessories,but also for other appliancesused outside as well) are all protected against by ground fault circuit interrupters

Keep grates and drain covers in good repair and secured inplace. Alert your family andguests to stay away from thesedevices, as the suction fromdrain outlets is strong enough tocause entrapment of hair or body parts, which can cause drowning.

(GFCIs), which are designed to protect against the hazards of electrical shock.

• If you are installing your ownspa or hot tub, it is yourresponsibility to make certainthat all work performedcomplies with the NationalElectrical Code, CanadianElectrical Code and all otherapplicable codes and regulations.

FITTINGS, GRATES, AND DRAIN COVERS

• Your spa or hot tub’s inlet andoutlet fittings, grates and skim-mer, and main drain covers must be designed to prevententrapment. They must complywith the latest edition ofANSI/APSP-16 Suction Fittings

for Use in Swimming Pools,

Wading Pools, Spas, and Hot

Tubs. They also must be kept ingood repair and must be securedin such a manner that they can’tbe removed without the use oftools. If broken suction, call forservice immediately and do notuse hot tub.

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• Tell children, particularly, thatthese devices are not toys. Instructall users not to stick their fingers,toes, or body into them. Entrap -ment and drowning can occur.

• Anyone with long hair should becautioned not to get their hairnear a spa or hot tub outlet. Thesuction can cause hair or bodyentrapment and drowning. Keeplong hair away from the suctionfitting drain cover/grate. If youhave long hair, pin it up or weara bathing cap. A drain without a cover/grate can have a pull ofapproximately 700 lbs. (317.5Kg)—enough to hold an adultunder water! Never allow a childto play in a way that could per-mit the child’s hair to come nearthe drain cover.

• Never play or swim near drains or suction fittings. Your body or hair may be trapped causingpermanent injury or drowning.

• Never enter the pool or spa if asuction fitting or the drain coveris loose, broken, or missing.

• Immediately notify the pool/spaowner or operator if you findthe drain cover loose, broken, or missing.

FILTER SYSTEMS • Most filter systems can maintain

internal pressure even when shutoff. Never perform work on yourfilter equipment without turning

WARNING DROWNING HAZARD

Avoid Drain Covers

Avoid Body Entrapment

Avoid Finger Entrapment

Avoid Hair Entanglement

Avoid Evisceration

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the entire system off and bleedingoff the internal pressure. Whenyou restart your filter aftermaintenance or when you areturning on your equipment toput your spa or hot tub in opera-tion, always bleed off the air inyour filter tank, and even then,stand back. Serious bodily injurycan occur if the top of the filter separates from the bottom withsudden force because of someproblem or error on your part.Always securely clamp the topand bottom of a two-piece filterin accordance with the manufac-turer’s specifications. Seriousbodily injury can result if the top of a two-piece filter is blownoff by air pressure that is allowedto accumulate in the tank. If you are at all unsure of how to proceed, call your spa or hottub professional.

• Carefully follow the manufactur-er’s instructions for maintaining, servicing, or repairing a filter orseparation tank. Regularly inspectthis equipment while it is turnedoff, with the idea of replacingworn or damaged parts. Neverinspect filtration equipmentwithout being sure that theinternal pressure has been bledoff through the manual valveprovided for that purpose. Referto manufacturer’s instructions.

• Filtration equipment requirescare in handling as well as regular maintenance andreplacement parts to functionproperly and efficiently.

HEATERS • Heaters should be installed

according to the manufacturer’sinstructions and should be inaccordance with state or localgovernment regulations or firecodes. Heaters can be danger-ously hot to the touch. Do notplace or drape any flammablematerial (e.g., a towel or teeshirt) on top of or near a heater.

• If you wish to use a propaneheater, consult local regulationsfor the safe use, hook-up, andstorage of propane products.These regulations may be underthe control of local fire or muni -cipal departments, county build-ing codes, etc. Learn of your localregulations and follow them.

• With propane or natural gasheaters, when lighting or relightingthe pilot or turning the heater onor off, refer to the manufacturer’sinstructions on the name and rating plate. This plate is attachedto the heater inside the controlcompartment. Following theseinstructions will prevent injuries.Gas is explosive and flammable.

• IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTE: Fossilfuel appliances, like spa heaters,produce poisonous carbonmonoxide gas as a byproduct of combustion. Proper venting of exhaust gases and the correctsizing of gas meters, gas supplypiping, make-up air intakes, etc.are critical installation consider-ations in preventing potentialcarbon monoxide gas poisoningor loss of life.

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• At least one responsible personshould be trained in artificial res-piration and/or cardiopulmonaryresuscitation (CPR). Such trainingis available from local organiza-tions such as the American Red Cross or the Red Cross ofCanada.

Portable Spas (Cord Connected)—Special Considerations

In addition to all of the guidelinesfor spas and hot tubs, there are some special conditions for portablespas, which plug into existing electrical outlets.

• Have a licensed electrician verifythat the amperage capacity of thecircuit into which the portable spais connected, exceeds the amperagerating of the spa equipment. Mostportable spas require a 20-amp circuit with no other appliancesoperating from the same circuit as the spa.

• Do not assume that the wall outletfor the portable spa is properlygrounded. Have a licensed electri-cian check for the quality of theground in the circuit. When used in accordance with the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI),this ground provides the only safe-ty measure in the event of electricalmalfunction of the spa equipmentor connecting cord.

MAINTENANCE OF WATER • Keep the spa or hot tub clean

and clear of debris. Keep thewater clean so that you can seethe bottom when entering (orbefore turning on the water jets).

• Use an EPA-registered sanitizerand follow the use directions on the label to protect against the spread of infection. Do notassume that because the water is clear it has been properly sanitized. Periodically check thesanitizer levels to ensure they are maintained according to thelabel directions.

• Keep the spa or hot tub filled to its proper level. Periodicallycheck the water levels.

• Change the water on a schedulerecommended by your spa orhot tub professional.

FIRST AID • Have a complete first aid kit

near the facility and make surethat someone knows how to usethe contents properly. Post a list of emergency telephone numbersby the phone nearest the spa or hot tub (or keep a cordlessphone nearby). This list shouldcontain the names and telephonenumbers of the closest physician,ambulance service, hospital and police, fire, or rescue unit. It is a good idea to include yourhome address on this list. In anemergency, it’s not uncommonfor someone to panic and forgethis or her own address.

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• Have a licensed electrician verifythat all portable spa equipment is wired through a GFCI, and test the GFCI regularly to ensure proper operation in case of electrical malfunction.

• Do not use extension cords.

• Do not use plug receptacles thatcould be exposed to weather ormoisture.

Chemicals

The chemicals needed for your spaor hot tub help make it clean, safe,and more attractive to use. But,remember that these chemicals are potentially dangerous and maypresent some hazards if not usedproperly. Carefully follow the manu-facturer’s instructions for the use and storage of chemicals. In general,here are some tips for chemical use and storage:

• Before using chemicals, read thelabels and directions carefully.Follow label use instructions.

• Keep all chemicals out of the reachof children.

Don’t guess with chemicals.Before using, read the labelsand follow directions carefully.Be sure to store them properly.

STORAGE• Chemical reagents for test kitsshould be replaced each year.

• Keep the original lids on allchemical containers and makesure the lids are tightly closedwhen not in use.

• Do not stack different chemicalson top of one another.

• Store your spa or hot tub chem-icals in a clean, cool, dry, well-ventilated area, preferably offthe floor, to prevent contamina-tion from other materials. Neverstore chemicals near the spa orhot tub heater. Always keepthem away from chemicals andequipment used for garden andlawn maintenance. Keep acidsaway from other chemicals.

• Keep liquid chemicals awayfrom dry chemicals. Physicallyseparate different forms ofchemicals. Chemicals that arelabeled as “oxidizers” should bekept apart from other chemicals.

Leisure Works Spas

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•Wash out empty chemical con-tainers before disposal to elimi-nate danger of fire, explosion, or poisoning.

• Test the water in your spa or hottub with a reliable test kit on a schedule recommended by yourspa or hot tub professional.Add the necessary chemicalsaccording to the test results andthe manufacturer’s instructions. In the hot water environmentsof spas and hot tubs, disinfec-tants may rapidly break up and spread out, requiring more frequent water testing. (Thehigher temperatures deplete thechemicals faster.) Follow yourmanufacturer’s instructions in this regard. Also, the morepeople who use the facility, themore frequently you should test the water.

• Do not inhale dust or fumesfrom any chemicals. If neces-sary, use proper protectivedevices for breathing, handling, and eye protection. Promptly washoff any residues that get on your skin.

• Never reuse old chemical containers.

• If you have any questions regarding safe handling, storage,or use of spa or hot tub chemi-cals, contact the manufacturers.The phone number and websiteof the chemical manufacturingcompany is usually on the labelof the product.

• Do not store your spa or hot tubchemicals where other flamma-ble items may mix with them.For example, a mixture of thesechemicals and fertilizer cancause a fire or explosion.

• Wash your hands thoroughlyafter using chemicals.

USAGE• Never mix two chemicals together.Use a clean scoop for each chemi-cal, and never combine materialfrom “old” and “new” containers.

• Always add chemicals to water.Never add water to chemicals.

• Always add the chemicals direct-ly to the spa or hot tub water, either in a suitable feeder, distributed across the surface of the water, or diluted andpoured into the water. Followlabel use instructions.

• When preparing water solutionsfor feeder application, pour thechemical slowly into the appro-priate amount of water, stirringconstantly to provide mixingand dilutions.

• Never add chemicals to the spaor hot tub water while peopleare using the facility.

• Carefully clean up any spilledchemicals with large amounts of water, to dilute and washaway the chemicals. Check withlocal authorities before sendingdisinfectants and pH adjustmentchemicals to the sewer as waste.

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Working with electricity is usually a job best left to the experts. Don’t take chances.

• Do not stand in water while operating electrical components.

Recommended Use of Professionals

For your protection, only spa or hottub professionals, licensed electri-cians, builders, carpenters or otherappropriate experts should performthe following services:

• Selection, installation, and servic-ing of electrical equipment, heaters, filters, and separation tanks; covers(including solar); solar systems;plumbing and related devices.

• Building of walls, fences, and other barriers as layers of protection to children and otherunauthorized users.

• Annual inspection of all spa andhot tub equipment and accessories.

Electrical Maintenance

Working with electricity is a job bestleft to the experts. Here are some gen-eral safety rules and precautions forelectrical maintenance:

• Before working with any electricalequipment, make sure the electricity is turned off at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

• Make sure that the electrical outlets near the spa or hot tub areprotected by ground fault circuitinterrupters (GFCIs). GFCIs aredesigned to prevent electrical shock.They are a kind of “fail safe” devicethat can shut off electrical current infractions of seconds. Ask a licensed electrician for more details.

• If you have any frayed cords, looseconnections, sparking or arcing, turnoff the power at the circuit breakerand call a licensed electrician.

• Have a licensed electrician inspectand test all equipment prior to initialoperation and before each season.

• Never replace bulbs for underwaterlights yourself. Get an expert to dothis for you.

• Do not let water accumulate on thefloor or deck areas where electricalswitches are located.

Hot Spring Spas

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One More Warning on Drowning: Children Aren’t Waterproof

The popularity of swimminginstruction for preschoolers hasincreased dramatically over the last few years. “Water adjustment” or “water proofing” classes haveattempted to create acceptance of water by young children, provideyoung children with “survival” types of reactions to remain afloatafter accidental entrance into water, develop coordination, andprovide exercise. Many professionals, however, warn that these lessons may provide a false sense of securityto a child’s family and not actuallyprepare a child for surviving a true emergency.

The American Academy ofPediatrics recommends:

1. If parents wish to enroll infants in a water adjustment and swim-ming program, it should be on aone-to-one basis with the parentor a responsible adult. Total submersion should be prohibited.Organized group swimminginstruction is not recommendedfor children under three years of age.

2. Instruction should be carried outby trained instructors in properlymaintained pools.

3. Infants with known medical problems should receive clearance from their physicians.

4. Efforts to reduce the number ofdrownings among children shouldconcentrate on two methods ofproven effectiveness:

A. The assurance of constant,competent adult supervision for children or non-swimmersin swimming areas.

B. The use of personal flotationdevices for all non-swimmersclose to bodies of water or in boats.

5. People who own pools or spasshould be properly trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR).

Hot Spring Spas

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) offers many publications and materials to help you enjoy your spa or hot tub. They also offer informativematerials on inground and aboveground pools.

CONTACT:The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance

2111 Eisenhower AvenueAlexandria, VA 22314

www.PHTA.org

For More Information

Notice to Parents and Spa/Hot Tub Owners

It is your responsibility to enforce the rules of safety. A good exercise wouldbe to have each of your children and the other spa/hot tub users who residewith you read this booklet and sign in one of the spaces indicated below. Thiswill help you enforce the rules since you can always refer back to their promisereflected by their signature.

We the undersigned have read this safety booklet. We understand what it saysand we promise to follow the rules of safety and to use our common sense.

PARENTS: The life and health of you and your children as well as your friends andneighbors are important. Please practice safety and supervise your spa or hot tub.

Cascade Spas

About PHTAThe Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) is the world’s oldest and largest associationrepresenting swimming pool, hot tub, and spa manufacturers, distributors,manufacturers’ agents, designers, builders, installers, suppliers, retailers, and service professionals. Dedicated to the growth and development of its members’businesses and to promoting the enjoyment and safety of pools and spas, PHTAoffers a range of services, from professional development to advancing keylegislation and regulation at the federal and local levels, to consumer outreach andpublic safety. PHTA is the only industry organization recognized by the AmericanNational Standards Institute to develop and promote national consensus standardsfor pools, hot tubs, and spas. For more information, visit PHTA.org.

About The Pool & Hot Tub Council of CanadaThe Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada is an association representing the interests ofthe top companies that make up the pool and spa industry in Canada. Abiding bythe Code of Ethics, Member companies perform to the highest standards ofworkmanship and service. The Pool & Hot Tub Council of Canada is a national, not-for-profit association of companies, organizations and individuals involved in theaquatic leisure industry. Members include builders and contractors, retailers, serviceproviders, manufacturers and distributors of swimming pools, hot tubs and waterfeature products. Members also include public pool operators and related safetyorganizations. Our members promote the safe enjoyment of pools and hot tubs bysharing their knowledge with others. We encourage only the highest standards ofquality and professionalism so that all Canadians can take pleasure from ourproducts and services.

2111 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 500Alexandria VA 22314

PHTA.org

There is no substitute for constant,competent adult supervision in the spa or hot tub environment.Lives depend on you!

WARNING:

5 MacDougall DriveBrampton, Ontario, Canada L6S 3P3

poolcouncil.ca