First Aid & Emergencies
Child Safety: Bathing - Topic Overview
Many near-drowning and drowning accidents occur in the bathtub and can be prevented 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.
- A bath seat or ring does not prevent drowning. Do not assume a baby or young child is safe when he or she is left alone or with an older sibling while supported by these devices.
- Install nonslip strips or mats on the bottom of the bathtub.
- Always drain the water from the tub immediately after the bath.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
January 26, 2011
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