January is Bath Safety Month

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas-- --  The bathroom- yes, it's a dirty subject, but someone's got to cover it! January is bath safety month so here are some helpful hints that are useful all year long. Take a look and see what could be present in your home or find ideas to help family or friends if experiencing any challenges around the bathroom.

· Keep bathroom doors and toilet lids secure with locks. Toilet seat locks can be purchased for about $5 and will help ensure your child doesn't accidentally flush your cell phone or fall head first into the water.

· Never leave small children alone around any container of water. This includes toilets, tubs, wading pools, spas, aquariums and buckets.

· Safeguard bathtubs and sinks used for bathing by using faucet covers and nonskid mats or decals.

· Before bathing children, gather the soap, shampoo, toys, towel, diaper, clothing and any other items you might need before running the bath water. Place these items so you can easily reach them.

· After running bath water, check the water temperature before placing the child in the bath water. Anti-scald devices are also available from local hardware stores.

· Some people who are elderly may have less sensation in their hands and therefore may misjudge water temperature. If you have a loved one who is elderly, check the water temperature in their home to avoid scalding injuries.

· Once your child is in the bath, don't leave for any reason. Children can drown in just a small amount of water. They can easily topple into the tub or toilet. It only takes a few seconds for a drowning to happen.

· If you must leave the room for the telephone or door, take the child with you.

· To avoid falls and slipping under the water, always keep one hand firmly around the child when bathing him and keep the child sitting.

· For people who are elderly or have disabilities, consider installing grab bars on walls around the tub and beside the toilet and a portable, hand-held shower head (Safety tips courtesy of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services).

· This one seems like a no-brainer; put away any objects that can harm little ones, which is almost anything they can get their hands on! Razors, nail clippers, and other adult items should never be within reach of little fingers.

· Cleaning supplies - keep all cleaning supplies out of reach or in locked cabinets.

· Medications - keep all medications out of reach and securely locked where children cannot reach them.

· Poison - in the event of possible poisoning, know what to do. The American Association of Poison Control Centers is always available, regardless of the day or time. They can be reached at (800) 222-1222.

For questions or concerns, please contact the Wing Safety office at (325) 654-3895.