Saunas, ubiquitous in Finland, see occasional deaths despite their popularity. A study from 1990-2002 reveals key causes: half from natural reasons, a quarter due to heat exposure, and half involving alcohol. This underscores the importance of caution, particularly in alcohol consumption, during sauna sessions. 

5 Causes of Death in Saunas According to Research

Drinking alcohol plus using the sauna

According to Finnish research, death in saunas is rare, with an annual rate of less than 2 per 100,000 inhabitants. However, 50% of sauna deaths involved alcohol consumption. The study analyzed police reports and autopsy data, revealing that exposure to heat was the cause in 25% of deaths, while natural causes accounted for 51%. Preventing these deaths involves reducing alcohol intake and avoiding leaving intoxicated individuals alone in the sauna.

Spending too much time in the sauna.

Research highlights the risks of prolonged sauna exposure. A 77-year-old man was found dead in a 78°C sauna, partially mummified, and a 73-year-old woman was discovered in a 70°C sauna with skin detachments. Both cases were attributed to heat shock, with no other causes. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring sauna time and temperature to prevent such tragedies. Limiting sauna sessions and staying hydrated can help ensure safe sauna use

Falls or Injuries

Research indicates that falls and injuries are common in saunas. A study identified 209 patients treated for sauna-related injuries, with the most common causes being slips and falls (57.5%) and dizziness (30%). Injuries included contusions, wounds, fractures, ligament injuries, concussions, burns, and brain bleeding. Prevention measures such as staying hydrated and wearing slip-resistant slippers can help reduce these incidents, enhancing safety during sauna use.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

In 2009, two men in Hamburg tragically died in a homemade sauna due to carbon monoxide poisoning. The gas leaked from their gas-heated sauna, which lacked a proper monitor to detect dangerous levels. Both men, found unconscious and severely scalded, had been drinking heavily. This incident underscores the importance of using carbon monoxide detectors in gas-heated saunas to prevent such fatal accidents. Proper monitoring and safety measures are crucial to avoid similar tragedies.

Fire in sauna

Fires in saunas can be deadly, as evidenced by tragic incidents in Hamminkeln, Germany, and Daegu, South Korea. In Hamminkeln, a 64-year-old Dutch man died after a fire destroyed the Gallardo Sauna Club, despite first responders’ efforts to resuscitate him. Similarly, a fire in a Daegu sauna resulted in two deaths and over 70 injuries. The fire, which started on the fourth floor of a seven-story building, required the efforts of 145 firefighters to control.

Conclusion

Causes of death in saunas include alcohol consumption, prolonged exposure, falls, carbon monoxide poisoning, and fires. Prevention measures include reducing alcohol intake, monitoring time and temperature, using slip-resistant slippers, and installing carbon monoxide detectors. These steps enhance safety and help minimize risks while enjoying the benefits of saunas.