A trip to a remote cabin in the Red River Gorge area of Kentucky took a dangerous turn when two women in their 80s became trapped in a hot tub and suffered from hyperthermia. Local rescuers reported the incident occurred on the night of March 13, 2024, after the women spent an extended period in the heated water, unable to exit due to pre-existing health conditions.
The situation escalated when a third woman entered the hot tub to keep the other two women’s heads above water while a fourth called for emergency assistance. By the time the Wolfe County Search and Rescue team arrived, the cabin’s caretakers had managed to extract the women. One woman was partially responsive, while the other was critically unresponsive.
Rescue efforts involved immediate cooling measures. An emergency medical technician moved the critically ill woman to a shower, applying cold water and ice to lower her body temperature. The second woman also received cold compresses and was moved outdoors for further cooling with water from a hose. After approximately 20 to 30 minutes of these interventions, both women showed signs of recovery.
They were subsequently transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. Details about their current conditions remain unclear. Notably, rescuers confirmed that alcohol consumption did not play a role in the incident. This was the first time the volunteer rescue team had responded to a call of this nature, which typically involves missing persons or high-angle rescues.
In light of this event, Wolfe County Search and Rescue issued a warning regarding hot tub safety. The team emphasized the importance of limiting immersion time to between 15 and 30 minutes, particularly for individuals with health issues. They urged anyone using a hot tub to ensure they can exit safely if necessary.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has previously highlighted the dangers of prolonged exposure to hot water, particularly at temperatures exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Such exposure can lead to heat-related injuries, including hyperthermia. The agency has established guidelines requiring temperature controls to prevent spa water from reaching dangerously high levels, addressing the potential risks associated with hot tubs.
As this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in using hot tubs, authorities continue to stress the importance of safety precautions.
