25 Sep Rx: Safe Hot Springs Soaking
Soaking in geothermal springs is considered a relatively safe venture, but being aware and informed of potential risks can help avoid unexpected health issues. Here’s a rundown of safe soaking practices for the next time you visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs or any other geothermal spring.
Be sun smart year-round. The dog days of summer may be behind us, but because of Glenwood’s elevation at 5,600 feet above sea level, the chances of getting sun damage—even on a cloudy day—are increased. Be sun smart while soaking by wearing a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. If you forgot any of these items, we’ve got reasonably priced options available in the bathhouse gift shop.
Slippery when wet. Surfaces around any pool have the potential to be slippery when wet. Take precautions to avoid falls. For starters, always walk—don’t run. Use the railings at the soaking pools and family pool to enter and exit. For extra balance while ascending steps, grab hold of the railings there as well. Additionally, Iron Mountain Hot Springs places non-slip mats throughout the bathing areas to reduce slippage. Another good practice is to wear grippy soled shoes when walking to other pools, the Sopris Café or the locker rooms.
Be water-wise. Commercial hot springs are public swimming pools and are required to meet stringent water state quality standards. That’s not the case for hot pots, hippie dips or wild hot springs found in nature. Iron Mountain Hot Springs exceeds state standards by a long shot. We take great pride in caring for our natural water resource. The water in our 16 soaking pools is completely refreshed every two hours and tested throughout the day. Additionally, we drain, scrub and power wash the pools on a weekly basis to ensure premium soaking conditions for our guests.
Timing is everything. While that 108°F water may feel terrific on your sore muscles, don’t overdo it. Prolonged soaking can lead to hyperthermia—high body temperature—and ultimately to heat stroke which is a serious medical condition. So pace yourself, soak for no more than 15 minutes at a time before giving yourself a break by either moving to a cooler pool, sitting on the edge of a soaking pool or getting out altogether for a spell.
How’s your health? If you have known health conditions like cardiovascular disease, it’s a good idea to check with your doc before you spend an afternoon soaking in hot water. No one wants to go to the emergency room on their vacation. Just as important, if you are ill or are experiencing lower intestinal issues, for the health and wellbeing of all, please stay out of the water and visit us at another time when you are feeling better.
Baby on board? Keeping that precious bundle of joy safe and happy is your primary duty as a mom-to-be. Before soaking we recommend checking with your OB/GYN just to be on the safe side. Also, when planning your getaway to Iron Mountain Hot Springs, please keep in mind that children under the age of five are not allowed in our geothermal soaking pools. They are welcome, however, to splash and play in the freshwater family pool.
Practice moderation. Visitors to Iron Mountain Hot Springs can enjoy wine, beer and other cocktails, all safely packaged for poolside enjoyment. We encourage guests to drink responsibly. Because hot springs accelerate the effects of alcohol, imbibing in moderation is a key factor to enjoyable relaxation without negative effects.
Now that you know how to have a safe soak at Iron Mountain Hot Springs, it’s time to get in the water and HAVE FUN!
Karin Gamba
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