6.3.5.1: Hot Tubs, Spas, and Saunas

Children should not be permitted in hot tubs, spas, or saunas in child care. Areas should be secured to prevent any access by children.

RATIONALE

Any body of water, including hot tubs, pails, and toilets, presents a drowning risk to young children (1-3). Toddlers and infants are particularly susceptible to overheating.

TYPE OF FACILITY

Center, Early Head Start, Head Start, Large Family Child Care Home, Small Family Child Care Home

RELATED STANDARDS

6.3.1.1 Enclosure of Bodies of Water
6.3.1.4 Safety Covers for Swimming Pools
6.3.1.6 Pool Drain Covers

REFERENCES

1. Gipson, K. 2008. Pool and spa submersion: Estimated injuries and reported fatalities, 2008 report. Atlanta: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. http://www.cpsc.gov/LIBRARY/poolsub2008.pdf.
2. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). 2009. CPSC warns of in-home drowning dangers with bathtubs, bath seats, buckets. Release #10-008. http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10008.html.
3. American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention. 2010. Policy statement: Prevention of drowning. Pediatrics 126:178-85.