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
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSusan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Thomas M. Bailey, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerJohn Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Current as ofSeptember 9, 2014
Current as of:
September 9, 2014
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.
