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: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
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
John Pope, MD - Pediatrics |
|
Last Revised
|
March 8, 2013 |
Last Revised:
March 8, 2013
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.
