Rescuers Save Two Women from Hot Tub Emergency in Kentucky
Two women in their 80s were rescued after becoming overheated while stuck in a hot tub at a remote cabin in the Red River Gorge area of Kentucky on March 15, 2024. Local rescuers reported that the incident nearly turned deadly as the women developed hyperthermia after spending an extended period in the heated water.
The women were unable to exit the hot tub due to pre-existing health issues, according to the Wolfe County Search and Rescue team. The rescue occurred after a friend, who was also at the cabin, entered the hot tub to support the women, while another friend called 911 for assistance.
Rescue Operation Details
By the time emergency responders arrived, the cabin’s caretakers had managed to remove the two women from the hot tub. One woman showed partial responsiveness while the other was unresponsive and in critical condition. An emergency medical technician on the rescue team quickly moved the critical patient to a shower, where cold water and ice were applied to help lower her body temperature.
The less critical patient also received cold compresses and was moved outdoors, where she was doused with water from a hose. After approximately 20 to 30 minutes of cold water immersion, both women began to show signs of recovery. Following their stabilization, they were transferred to a local hospital for further treatment.
As of now, additional information about the women’s current health status has not been released. The Wolfe County Search and Rescue team stated that this incident was unprecedented for them, as they typically handle missing persons cases, high-angle rescues, and swift water rescues.
Safety Recommendations and Precautions
Following the incident, the rescue team issued a reminder emphasizing the importance of limiting time spent in hot tubs. They recommend a maximum immersion time of between 15 to 30 minutes and urge individuals to ensure they can exit the hot tub independently, particularly if they have any disabilities.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has previously addressed concerns regarding hot tub safety. In 1987, they implemented requirements to ensure that spa water temperatures do not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat-related injuries are more likely to occur when water temperatures exceed this threshold.
Rescuers confirmed that alcohol consumption was not a factor in this incident. As the community reflects on this close call, it serves as a crucial reminder of the potential dangers associated with prolonged exposure to heated water.
