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UW Health SMPH

Child Safety: Bathing

Topic Overview Back to top

Many near-drowning and drowning accidents occur in the bathtub and can be prevented by following these recommendations: 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.
  • A bath seat or ring does not prevent drowning. Do not assume a baby or young child is safe when he or she is left alone or with an older sibling while supported by these devices.
  • Install nonslip strips or mats on the bottom of the bathtub.
  • Always drain the water from the tub immediately after the bath.

References Back to top

Citations

  1. Consumer Product Safety Commission (2012). Prevent child in-home drowning deaths. CPSC Document No. 5013. Available online: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/chdrown.html.

Credits Back to top

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Last Revised January 22, 2013

Last Revised: January 22, 2013

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics & John Pope, MD - Pediatrics

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