Child Safety: Bathing

Topic Overview

Many near-drownings and drownings occur in the bathtub. Children are easily burned by hot water. Prevent these bath related injuries by following these recommendations:^{footnote 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.
• Do not use a bath seat or ring. They are not safe.
• Set your hot water heater to 49°C (120°F) or less.

Prevent slipping by installing non-slip strips or mats on the bottom of the bathtub. Always drain the water from the tub right away after the bath.