With Labor Day — the unofficial end of the carefree days of summer — just a few short weeks away, many families are eager to squeeze just a little bit more fun from the season. So, they pack up the car and the kids and head to a motel for one last summer getaway.
But you want to make sure that the memories they make on their trips are happy ones unmarred by any tragic events. That’s why it is vital to be aware of the danger of drain entrapment occurring at your properties.
What is drain entrapment?
This deadly situation occurs when a person becomes caught fast in a faulty drainage system or another part of the water circulation system in a spa or pool. The force exerted by the suction can be too strong for even an adult to break. The one (often a child) attached to the suction can die by drowning or gruesome evisceration before help can arrive.
How to prevent drain entrapment
If you own a hotel or motel, you have a duty of care to ensure the safety of your visitors. This includes updating pools and spas to comply with all regulations designed to prevent these avoidable injuries and deaths. As the owner or property manager, it falls on you to regularly inspect the spa and pool, paying particular attention to the water circulation system and drains to make sure nothing is broken.
Despite all your precautions, an accident could still occur on your property. You will want to learn more about defending any premises liability claims for alleged damages and losses.
