Thursday, January 13, 2011

Bath Safety


The only possible way to follow-up the last post is to discuss one the holidays we get to celebrate ALL month long: bath safety month!
For your reading pleasure, here are 10 tips you can try this month {via associated content}

Bathroom safety tip # 1

Electrical items in the bathroom are sometimes necessary, but they can lead to deadly accidents or injury. NEVER plug in an electrical appliance near an area where water is present. This includes the bathtub, toilet, and even sink. One false move could plunge a plugged-in electrical item into water, causing electrocution.

Bathroom safety tip # 2

Use slip resistant mats or materials in and around wet areas. Purchase mats with a non-slip backing, or gritty surface, to help in preventing bathroom slips and falls.

Bathroom safety tip # 3

Mop up any accumulated water from the floor. If children are in the home, always inspect the floor surface after bath time, hand washing, or teeth brushing. This will ensure there aren't any water puddles on the floor. Not only can this water cause slips and falls, but it also goes back to bathroom safety tip # 1; electrocution.

Bathroom safety tip # 4

Protect electrical outlets with a ground-fault circuit interrupter. An electrician can install this for you, and it will protect you from being shocked, in the event that water and electricity come together.

Bathroom safety tip # 5

Install grab bars in or around the bathtub and shower area, and also by the toilet. When installed properly, grab bars make it easier to get out of the bath, and are good to have in case you loose your footing in the tub or shower. Senior citizens, in particular, can benefit from having grab bars installed in the home. NEVER use a soap dish or towel rack as a grab bar.

Bathroom safety tip # 6

To prevent burns, set hot water heaters at, or below, a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, select anti-scald faucets. It's also a safe idea to keep a bathroom window ajar to prevent overheating. If there is no bathroom window, an exhaust fan can be helpful in keeping air circulated.

Bathroom safety tip # 7
If there are small children in the home, a lock should be installed outside the bathroom door. This lock should be installed high on the door, out of reach of children, and should remain locked at all times. Small children have drown in toilets, or even as little as an inch of water. There are too many dangers in the bathroom to take chances.

Happy Bathing!

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