Child Bathtime Safety
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Infant and Toddler Bath Time Safety
As infants grow into toddlers, bath time becomes a fun time of discovery and adventure. However, there are certain precautions that must be taken by parents in order to assure the safety of their child. The greatest threats to your child’s safety at bath time are water burns and drowning. Other possible dangers are falling on the tub or wet floor. The following tips will help you avoid these hazards.
Never Leave a Child Unattended:
Make the decision now to never leave your child alone during a bath. Other distractions, such as a phone call, another child, or even someone at the door, can wait while you get your child out of the tub. It only takes seconds for a child’s safety to be jeopardized if left alone in the tub.
Avoid Water Burns:
Always have an adult pour the water for the bath. Children will likely want to help out, so explain to them that it is a job for an adult because it can be dangerous. Once the water is poured, always check the temperature before letting your child get in. Some adults like to have their shower/bath water hot, but remember that children are better off bathing in warm water. If it is necessary to add more water during the bath, be sure to monitor the temperature carefully.
Prevent Drowning:
One precautionary step to take in order to keep a child from drowning is to keep the water level low. But remember that it is possible for a child to drown in only a couple inches of water. This is why the best way to avoid a child drowning is to stay near your child during the bath and let the water out immediately afterward.
Avoid Falling:
A tub full of water can be slippery. Teach your child that it is against the rules to stand up while bathing. You can also use a specialized tub mat that provides a grip. This will make it easier to get in and out of the tub without falling. Always have a rug just outside of the tub for the child to stand on while drying off. This will help to keep water off the of rest of the floor, and will help prevent further falls.
Bathtime doesn’t have to be stressful, or hazardous. With a few simple precautions, you’ll be at ease knowing that your child’s safety isn’t endangered during bathtime. With safety established during baths, you’ll be able to relax and have fun as your child enjoys some fun in the tub.
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