Bath time may be one of the most exciting parts of your kids’ day, but it can also be one of the most dangerous! Below, we’re sharing some tips to help keep your little ones safe in the tub.
Supervision
Despite the temptation to leave the bathroom for “just a second,” you should never leave a young child unattended in the tub. Many folks believe they'll hear a splash or a noise from a baby in distress, but too often, this is not the case. Infants and toddlers can slip underwater silently. Don’t take the risk–not even for a second! For kids under 12 months, ensure you've got everything you need within arm’s reach before you start.
Slips and falls
Install no-slip strips on the bottom of the tub. Place a cushioned cover over the water faucet so your little one won't be hurt if he bumps his head against it. Get in the habit of closing the lid of the toilet and invest in a lid lock. A curious toddler who tries to play in the water can lose his balance and fall in.
Water temperature
Set the water temperature no higher than 120℉ (48.9 ℃) to prevent accidental burns. Curious toddlers like to turn on the water themselves and may quickly sustain a burn if the water is simply too hot. Get in the habit of turning on the cold water first, and show your children how to do the same!
Medicine and toiletry storage
Keep all medicines in containers with safety caps. Remember, however, that these caps are child-resistant, not childproof, so store all medicines and cosmetics in a locked cabinet that’s high and out of reach. Don't leave toothpaste, soaps, shampoos, and other frequently used items out on the counters or around the tub. Instead, store them in a very hard-to-reach cabinet equipped with a security latch or locks.
Electric Appliances
Electrical devices like hair dryers and curling irons can cause electrical shock if they fall into water. Not to mention, they can cause serious burns! These devices should be unplugged when not in use and stored up high, in a very secured cabinet or closet, or perhaps in another area.
It is always better to be safe than sorry. So, if you haven’t really thought of your bathroom’s safety, now is the perfect time! Use the tips above to guide you as you evaluate the safety of the bathrooms in your home, particularly the bathroom most often used by your little ones. And don’t worry if your bathroom doesn’t look like something out of a catalogue. Remember, safety is more important than aesthetics.