How to Keep a Toddler Safe in the Bathtub

Most toddlers love bathtime because it gives them a chance to play and splash in water. However, it's important to stay vigilant while your child is in the tub to keep him safe and to prevent an accident from occurring.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Collect all bathing supplies, including towels, soap, shampoo, and bath toys ahead of time so you have everything you need with you in the bathroom.

2. Place a rubber mat in the bottom of your bathtub to make the surface safer and less slippery. Outfit the water spout with a cushioned cover to protect your toddler's head from bumping it.

3. Adjust your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Your toddler can receive third-degree burns from 150-degree water with only two seconds of exposure.

4. Move all electric appliances, such as radios, curling irons and hair dryers away from the bathtub to prevent your toddler from grabbing at them.

5. Run bath water that is warm but not hot. It's safer to bathe a toddler in water that's cooler than the water temperature an adult would prefer.

6. Fill the tub with water that reaches your toddler's waist while he's seated to reduce a drowning hazard.

7. Watch your toddler at all times while he is in the tub. Toddlers can drown in less than an inch of water.

8. Take your toddler out of the tub, wrap him in a towel and take him with you if you need to answer the door or tend to another child's needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a toddler bath seat only in conjunction with adult supervision.
• Never leave your toddler unsupervised while he's in the bathtub, even for a short time. This is very important in keeping him safe.
• Don't allow your toddler to play with the handles of the faucet. While he might not have the strength to move them now, he will eventually be able to and could accidentally scald himself.
• Don't leave another child in charge of watching your toddler in the bathtub.

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