January is National Bath Safety Month. Bath time can be dangerous for a toddler, and simple mistakes can lead to serious injuries or even death. Here are some important tips for parents and caregivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If your bathroom door doesn\u2019t have a lock on the outside, install one at a height where you can reach it, but your toddler can\u2019t. If there is a lock on the inside, make sure that you can open it from the outside, in case your child gets in the bathroom and locks the door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Assemble all the items you will need before you take your child into the bathroom. Getting everything ready ahead of time can make bath time less stressful for both of you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Accidents are more likely to happen if you\u2019re stressed or distracted. Schedule your toddler\u2019s bath for a time of day when you won\u2019t be feeling overwhelmed with tasks or trying to supervise multiple children all by yourself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Use water that is warm, not hot. Feel the water to make sure it isn\u2019t too hot before you put your toddler in the tub. Check the temperature setting on your water heater and adjust it, if necessary, to prevent scalding. Empty the tub as soon as you finish bathing your child. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can do things like cover the faucet and knobs so your toddler won\u2019t get hurt if he or she bumps into them and even install anti-slip strips or a bathmat on the floor in the tub to prevent injuries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep shampoo, soap, bodywash, and other potentially dangerous chemicals out of your child\u2019s reach. Store those, as well as cosmetics, toothpaste, medications, other toiletries, razors, and all other potentially dangerous items, in locked cabinets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Toddlers require constant supervision during bath time. Never be more than arm\u2019s length away from your child. Don\u2019t give an older sibling responsibility for supervising your toddler in the tub. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Never leave your toddler unattended in the bathtub, even for a second. A young child can drown quickly in a small amount of water. If you get a phone call, let the caller leave a message or take your child with you to answer the phone. If someone comes to the door, take your toddler with you to answer it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bath seats are designed to make bath time easier, but they\u2019re not designed to prevent drowning. Always supervise your child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Toddlers are curious and often don\u2019t understand the dangers around them. Be prepared for potential accidents by making sure you have appropriate medical insurance<\/a> coverage. Petruzelo Insurance can help you compare policies from several leading insurers and choose the one that\u2019s right for your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n