Safety in the bathroom

Bathroom safety is taking care that baby doesn't slip nor is left alone around water and ensuring that cleaning products are kept well out of reach.

• Make sure that it's possible to open your bathroom and lavatory door from the outside in case your child locks the door.

• Medicines, scissors and razor blades should be kept out of your child's reach in a locked cupboard.

• Don't leave any perfumes and cosmetics lying around.

• Keep the lavatory lid closed.

• When you run your child's bath always run the cold tap in first so there's no risk of her being scalded; test the water before putting your child in.

• Fit thermostatic taps to reduce risk of scalding.

• Fit handles to the sides of the bath.

• Use a non-slip bath mat in the bath.

• Have a non-slip floor surface.

• Teach your child how to swim as soon as possible.

• Make sure bathroom windows are fitted with locks or safety catches.

• The bathroom cabinet, which must have a child-proof lock, should be out of the reach of your child.

• Don't fit a bathroom cabinet above the lavatory - your child could climb up on the seat to open it.

• Never leave your child alone in the bath.

• Hot towel rails should be covered with towels and your child should be taught from an early age that they're hot and shouldn't be touched.

• Don't mix lavatory cleaners with bleach as they can give off dangerous fumes.

• Keep all cleaning agents, bleaches and disinfectants in a locked cupboard.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

New Babycare
Copyright © 2009 Dorling Kindersley
Text copyright © 2009 Miriam Stoppard

Posted 30.06.2010

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