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Home › Articles › Basic Care › Trouble in the Tub

Trouble in the Tub

Prevent Childhood Drownings By Eliminating Common Dangers

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Even if the seat or ring is new, Dr. Shook recommends a thorough inspection. "Make sure the suction cups tightly adhere to both the seat or ring and the tub," she says. "Also, never use this equipment in a non-skid or slip-resistant bathtub because the suction cups may not stick to the tub surface."

Extra Protection
Once the bath is finished, water should be drained immediately. "Remove any loose items such as toys, washcloths and sponges from the tub area so they do not block the drain and prevent the tub from emptying completely," Dr. Shook says.

Because other factors can contribute to injuries and indirectly lead to drowning, there are additional measures adults can take to ensure a safe bath experience. "To provide greater traction, equip the tub with a rubber mat or apply non-slip adhesive decals or strips to the bottom of the tub," Dr. Shook says. "Keep a bath mat by the side of the tub so your child has a slip-free exit."

Finally, protecting kids from heat and electricity is especially important near water. "At its hottest point, water temperature should be no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit," Dr. Shook says. "Electrocution or shock can be averted by storing electrical appliances such as hair dryers, curling wands and electric razors away from children."

Facts About Bathtub Drownings

  • According to the Consumer Product Safety Association, an average of 115 U.S. children younger than 5 drown each year from hazards in the home. Two-thirds of those deaths occur in bathtubs.


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