by Red River Gorge, Kentucky – A girls’ trip meant for relaxation nearly turned deadly when two elderly women in their 80s became trapped in a hot tub at a remote cabin in the Red River Gorge area. What was supposed to be a peaceful soak in nature almost turned into a fatal tragedy.
The Scary Hot Tub Incident
According to the Wolfe County Search and Rescue Team, the women were with friends enjoying the cabin’s jacuzzi last Friday evening. But two of them, who had pre-existing mobility issues, found themselves unable to get out of the scalding hot water.
Stuck for an extended period, both women quickly became overheated, suffered from hyperthermia, and eventually lost consciousness.
A Friend’s Quick Thinking Saved Them
One of their friends jumped into the hot tub to keep their heads above water until help arrived. Without her quick response, officials said the situation could have easily ended in drowning.
The cabin’s caretakers then rushed over, managing to pull the women from the water. Rescuers reported that one woman was partially responsive, while the other was completely unresponsive and in critical condition when first responders arrived.
Emergency Response and Life-Saving Actions
According to NY Post, An EMT on the rescue team acted immediately, dragging the unconscious woman into a nearby shower and dousing her with cold water. Both women were then treated with ice packs and cold compresses to bring down their body temperatures.
The semi-responsive woman was taken outside and hosed down with cold water, while paramedics continued treatment before transporting both victims to the hospital. Thankfully, the rescue team later confirmed that both women survived and are recovering well.
The Warning From Rescuers
The Wolfe County Search and Rescue Team used the incident to warn the public about the dangers of extended hot tub use. They strongly advised that immersion time should be limited to just 15–30 minutes, and urged people with disabilities or mobility challenges to take extra precautions when entering or exiting hot tubs.
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“Hyperthermia and heatstroke can be fatal, and this story could have ended much differently without the quick thinking of all those involved with this rescue,” the team stated.
Hot Tub Safety Concerns Nationwide
Hot tubs and spas have long carried safety concerns. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) set requirements in 1987 to ensure spa water does not exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit after multiple deaths were linked to overheating in hot tubs.
The CPSC has also documented at least 13 deaths caused by hair entanglement in drain covers and other openings in spas and whirlpools.
More recently, in 2023, a man died from electrocution in a hot tub at a Mexican resort, while his wife narrowly survived after trying to save him. That case drew international attention and underscored ongoing risks.
A Girls’ Trip That Almost Ended in Tragedy
What began as a joyful getaway for a group of elderly friends nearly became a devastating loss. Thanks to fast action from bystanders and rescue crews, both women survived. The story now serves as a chilling reminder that hot tub safety should never be overlooked—no matter the time of year.
What do you think about this shocking hot tub incident? Do you believe hot tubs are riskier than most people realize?
Share your thoughts in the comments on ibwhsmag.com.
