Hot Spring Safety

How to Soak Safely in Hot Pots with Kids

Hot springs are such a fun way to get outside with kids and always a hit with our boys! As fun as the hot pots are they do pose some risks. With knowledge these potential dangers can be mitigated so you can safely swim with your kids! Here are some tips to help you avoid the potential dangers of hot springs.

CHECK TEMPS.

Temperatures can very between different pools or areas of the hot springs. Find one that isn't too hot for your kiddos. There are plenty of hotsprings that are cool enough temps for kids. Find one that is no warmer that bathtub water. Because of their body mass children can overheat and/or get dehydrated quickly. 'Hot tub' temps aren't recommended for children under 5 years old or pregnant women.

BACTERIA.

Unless the water is scalding hot bacteria and other things can grow in it. This can lead to infections or illness. Be careful not to let your kids swallow any water and make sure not to go in hot springs with any open cuts, or skinned knees.

BEWARE of HYDROGEN SULFIDE.

Hydrogen sulfide is a toxic gas and can be especially dangerous for young children because their faces are closer to the water where the gasses are being emitted. Avoid hot springs with a strong rotten egg smell (hydrogen sulfide), and look for ones that are well ventilated where the gasses can't get trapped and build up.

AVOID PROLONGED EXPOSURE.

Prolonged exposure in hot water can lead to hyperthermia (high body temp). Limit time spent in the water especially with children. Childrens bodies will overheat faster than an adults. High body temps can lead to heat exhaustion and even heat stroke. If you're getting too hot, your kids are already too hot. Take breaks sitting on the side to cool off if you need to.

NAEGLERIA FOWLERI.

This is the big scary one, Naegleria Fowleri, also know as Brain-eating amoeba. This is not specific to just hot springs. Naegleria Fowleri can be found in pretty much any water source including lakes, rivers, streams, swimming pools, and even SPLASH PADS. But before you freak out and swear off getting in water ever again just know this is VERY RARE. But it is still a risk so I am going to share it here. There are areas of the country or even particular bodies of water where there are higher concentrations of the amoeba, so do your research in advance. The brain-eating amoeba enters the body through the nasal cavity and can cause a potentially lethal brain infection. To avoid this plug your nose when jumping in, diving, or going under water. We chose not to let our kids swim under water in hot springs for multiple reasons including this.

SUPERVISION.

Remember to keep a close eye on kids at ALL TIMES, even if the water is shallow. Kids can drown in just INCHES of water. Have children wear approved personal floatation devices (PFDs) and keep them within arms reach. Even if children know how to swim watch them carefully because of hazards like slippery rocks, cloudy water ect.

BE CAUTIOUS OF CURRENTS.

Many hot springs are located in rivers, if it is be cautious of currents, whirlpools, undertows and the other dangers of moving water. Do not let children go into areas you haven't check. Water is much more powerful than it appears.

BIOHAZARDOUS MATERIAL.

Unfortunately people are gross and pee (and much more) in hot springs. Especially if kids are swimming in it you know there is going to be pee in there. If you don't want the nasties avoid hot springs that are stagnant without any flow.

CREEPY CRAWLIES.

Red spider Mites are just one of the critters that make hot springs less fun. They typically cling to the body (including clothing/towels in proximity of the pools) and proceed to bite the skin in an unsuccessful attempt to lay eggs. The bites leave itchy red sores behind that usually heal completely after a couple weeks. If you get bit use itch relief cream and avoid scratching the bites. Keep your towel & clothes away from the hot spring pools, hang them on a rock or tree branch instead. Apply bug lotion AFTER your soak.

HIKING IN AND OUT.

Be sure to follow safe hiking practices on your way in and hot. Be sure to have proper gear, water ect. Make sure you leave enough time to hike out before dark or bring headlamps/flashlights for the hike. These are neat jewels of mother nature we get to experience but also fragile habitats. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS.

Check with your doctor if you're pregnant, have a heart or other major medical condition before taking a dip.

Just a friendly reminder this is only for education purposes and the author is not to be held liable.