Bathroom Safety Tips

The combination of water, medications and electrical appliances make safety precautions in and around the bathroom essential for every family member. Safe storage of supplies, constant adult supervision around water and swift cleaning of slick surfaces should be common practice to help reduce the risk of some of home injuries. The Home Safety Council advises families to follow these steps to help avoid falls, poisoning, burns and drowning dangers:

Prevent Falls

	Have a grab bar by the bathtub and shower. Have a grab bar by the toilet.
	Put non-slip strips in your tub or shower. .
	Have a bath mat with a non-skid bottom next to the tub and shower.
	Keep the bathroom floor clean and dry.
	Use nightlights in hallways and bathrooms.

Protect Young Children

	Don’t let young children use the sink or tub without help. When children are in the tub, stay close enough to touch them.
	Know the things in your bathroom that are poisons.
	Look at the labels for the words “Caution”, “Warning”, or “Danger” on the box or bottle.
	Keep all medicines and cleaning products in the containers they came in. Keep labels on them.
	All your medicines and cleaning products should have child safety caps.
	All medicines, cosmetics (make-up) and cleaning supplies should be locked in a cabinet.
	Set your water heater at 120 degrees F or less (or just below the medium setting).

Prevent Fire

	Blow out candles if you leave the bathroom.
	Have a large, deep ashtray for smokers in your family.
	Put water on cigarette buttes before throwing them away.

Prevent Electrical Shock Injuries

	Keep hair dryers, curling irons and electric razors away from water. Always unplug appliances after using them.
	The electrical outlet in the bathroom should have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). This is a tool that protects you from a dangerous shock when water and electricity come together. An electrician can install a GFCI for you.