More than 6,600 people are injured each year by hot tubs, according to a new study.

The Center for Injury Research and Policy said in a news release that the number of injuries doubled from 1990 to 2007.

The study found that 73 percent of the people injured in hot tubs were older than 16. Approximately one-half of all injuries resulted from slips and falls.

Cuts were the most common injuries, usually to the legs and feet or the head.

But study author Lara McKenzie said that special attention needs to be paid to children, too, because they are more likely to suffer near drownings. Children 6 to 12 years old were also more likely to be injured jumping and diving into a hot tub.

The authors suggested placing slip-resistant surfacing in and around hot tubs and limiting exposure to 10 to 15 minutes at no more than 104 degrees.

McKenzie also said parents should keep hot tubs covered and locked when not in use, consider installing a fence or barrier around the area, set rules prohibiting jumping and diving and comply with suction cover standards.

The study was based on data in the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, which is operated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The study was published in the online issue of the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.