Child Safety: Bathing
Topic Overview
Many near-drownings and drownings occur in the bathtub. Children are easily burned by hot water. Prevent these bath related injuries by following these recommendations:footnote 1
- Never leave a baby alone in the bathtub, even for a moment. Always keep the baby within arm's reach.
- Never leave children in charge of watching their younger siblings while bathing, even if they are in the tub with them. Drowning can occur very quickly and silently.
- Do not use a bath seat or ring. They are not safe.
- Set your hot water heater to 49°C (120°F) or less.
Prevent slipping by installing non-slip strips or mats on the bottom of the bathtub. Always drain the water from the tub right away after the bath.
References
Citations
- Safe Kids Canada (2011). Make bath time a safe and happy experience for you and your child. Also available online: http://www.safekidscanada.ca/parents/safety-information/home-safety/bath-time/bath-time.aspx.
Credits
Current as of: August 22, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Susan C. Kim MD - Pediatrics
Thomas M. Bailey MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Current as of: August 22, 2019
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Susan C. Kim MD - Pediatrics & Thomas M. Bailey MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & John Pope MD - Pediatrics
Safe Kids Canada (2011). Make bath time a safe and happy experience for you and your child. Also available online: http://www.safekidscanada.ca/parents/safety-information/home-safety/bath-time/bath-time.aspx.