Family vacations should be filled with fun memories, and hotel pools are often the highlight for children. However, what many parents do not realize is that hotel pools can also be one of the most dangerous areas on the property. When hotels fail to follow proper safety standards, preventable hazards can turn a relaxing getaway into a traumatic experience.
Below are three of the most common ways children are injured at hotel pools and why these incidents are often the result of poor maintenance or inadequate supervision.
1. Drowning Risks at Hotel Pools
Drowning remains the leading cause of injury-related death in children. Most hotel pools do not have lifeguards on duty, which means parents and caregivers are solely responsible for watching their children.
Drowning can happen silently and in seconds, even in shallow or kiddie pools. Toddlers are at especially high risk. Nonfatal drowning can lead to serious and sometimes permanent injuries, including brain damage, memory loss, hypothermia, and organ failure.
Hotels can help prevent these tragedies by enforcing safety rules, maintaining clear water visibility, posting proper signage, and ensuring staff members are trained to respond to emergencies.
2. Illnesses and Chemical-Related Injuries
Hotel pools can also expose children to harmful bacteria and unsafe chemical levels. The CDC reports that nearly one-third of germ-related outbreaks from public pools occur at hotels. When water is not properly treated, children may suffer from gastrointestinal illnesses, respiratory infections, or painful skin rashes.
On the other hand, chemical levels that are too high can cause chlorine poisoning or chemical burns. Symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, dizziness, and eye irritation. Hotels are responsible for keeping pool chemicals at safe levels and ensuring staff members understand proper handling procedures.
3. Dangerous or Poorly Maintained Pool Drains
Pool drains are a hidden hazard that many parents never think about. When drains are not properly maintained or lack required safety covers, they can create powerful suction capable of trapping a child underwater.
Injuries may occur when hair becomes tangled, clothing gets caught, or limbs become trapped. Federal law requires hotels and resorts to use approved safety drain covers, and any broken or missing equipment puts children at significant risk.
Hotels Can Prevent These Incidents
Every one of these dangers can be prevented when hotels follow basic safety protocols, regularly inspect pool equipment, and properly train their staff. When they fail to do so and a child is hurt, families deserve answers and accountability.
We Are Here to Help Families After Hotel Pool Injuries
If your child has been injured at a hotel pool, The Button Law Firm can help you understand what happened and what your legal options are. Our team listens to your story, investigates the conditions that caused the injury, and works to ensure your family receives justice.
To speak with our team, call us at 214-699-4409214-699-4409 or connect with a staff member through our website. We are here to keep your family moving forward.
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