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Watkins Manufacturing Corporation is recalling over 35,000 Hydromassage Rotary jets found in 2023–2025 Highlife Collection spas. The recall addresses a severe defect where the jet’s suction force creates dangerous hair entanglement and drowning hazards.
More Than 35,000 Hydromassage Rotary Jets Recalled Over Drowning Risks: Full Details
Watkins Manufacturing Corporation has issued a critical safety recall for more than 35,000 Hydromassage Rotary jets. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), this nationwide alert was triggered by a severe design defect that poses life-threatening risks to consumers.
- Who is recalling the product? Watkins Manufacturing Corporation, the maker of Hot Spring Spas.
- Why are the jets being recalled? The jets generate an excessive suction force that creates severe hair entanglement, entrapment, and drowning hazards.
- CPSC Safety Warning: The CPSC strongly advises all hot tub owners to immediately cease using spas equipped with these specific jets until a professional repair is completed.
Which Hot Tub and Spa Models Are Affected?
The recall specifically targets the Hydromassage Rotary Jet (6 fin) installed in Highlife Collection spas. If you purchased a premium hot tub recently, you must verify your model.
| Manufacturer | Watkins Manufacturing Corporation |
|---|---|
| Affected Product | Hydromassage Rotary Jet (6 fin) |
| Spa Collection | Highlife Collection Spas |
| Model Years | 2023, 2024, and 2025 (Produced Q4 2022 – Q4 2025) |
How to locate your spa’s serial number: You can find the serial number printed on the data plate located inside the equipment compartment door of your spa. Cross-reference this number with the Hot Spring Spas official recall website to confirm if your unit requires repair.
Understanding the Danger: Hair Entanglement and Suction Hazards
The core issue with the recalled Hydromassage Rotary jets lies in their powerful suction mechanics. When the jet is active, a defect in the 6-fin rotary design allows it to pull in water with unexpected force.
If a user’s head gets too close to the jet, the suction force can rapidly pull hair into the mechanism. Once hair is tangled within the rotary fins, the user can become physically trapped underwater, leading to a severe risk of drowning.
Who is at highest risk? Children and individuals with long hair face the greatest danger. Because the suction force is difficult to overcome manually, an entanglement incident can turn fatal in a matter of seconds.
What Should Consumers Do Now? Steps for Remedy and Repair
If you own an affected Highlife Collection spa, take the following steps immediately to protect your family and guests:
- Stop using the recalled jets: Drain the spa or disable the power to ensure no one accidentally activates the defective jets.
- Contact Watkins Manufacturing: Reach out to Watkins Manufacturing or your local Hot Spring Spas dealer. You can contact them via their toll-free customer service line or through their official recall website.
- Schedule a free repair: The manufacturer is offering a free remedy. A certified technician will be dispatched to replace the dangerous 6-fin rotary jets with safe, redesigned components at no cost to you.
Legal Rights for Victims of Defective Hot Tub Jets
When a consumer product causes harm due to a manufacturing or design defect, victims have legal rights. A product recall does not absolve a manufacturer of liability if their product has already caused injuries.
If you or a loved one suffered hair entanglement, trauma, or drowning injuries due to these defective jets, you may be entitled to file a product liability lawsuit. Compensation can cover:
- Medical bills and emergency room visits
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Wrongful death damages in fatal drowning cases
It is crucial to consult an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in defective products. They can help preserve evidence, investigate the incident, and hold the negligent manufacturer accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Consumer Product Recalls
What are the 3 types of recalls?
The FDA and CPSC generally classify product recalls into three categories based on severity. Class I involves dangerous products that could cause serious health problems or death. Class II involves temporary or medically reversible health issues. Class III involves products unlikely to cause adverse health reactions but violate labeling laws.
Where can I find a list of recalled products?
You can find a comprehensive, up-to-date list of recalled consumer products in the United States by visiting the official Consumer Product Safety Commission website at CPSC.gov. Additionally, Recalls.gov aggregates safety alerts across multiple federal agencies, covering everything from defective hot tubs to hazardous vehicles and food items.
Which massage guns are being recalled?
Several massage guns have faced recent recalls due to fire and burn hazards caused by overheating lithium-ion batteries. Notably, the CPSC recently announced recalls for specific models of Homedics and Massimo massage guns. Always check the CPSC database with your specific brand and model number to verify its safety status.
What pressure washers have been recalled?
Recent pressure washer recalls have involved brands like Generac and Greenworks due to safety hazards. Issues typically include the spray gun failing to stop water flow or carbon monoxide poisoning risks from gas-powered models. Consumers should verify their specific model on the CPSC website to ensure it is safe to operate.