Bathing your child may be an everyday task, but the hidden dangers involved require you to be vigilant. Here's our Child Safety guide for all parents who want to ensure their children's safety at bath time.

Supervision

The most important tip for bathing a young child is never to leave them unsupervised in the bath, even for just a few seconds. Don’t be distracted - even momentarily - and don’t leave an older child supervise a younger one. Get everything you will need ready in advance so you won’t need to leave the bathroom.

First aid

Knowing what to do if something does go wrong is invaluable. For first aid advice and to find first aid courses in your area, go to the St John Ambulance website.

1) Scalding

Children’s skin is much thinner than that of an adult, and so can be scalded more quickly and at lower temperatures. In fact, a toddler can suffer third degree burns from a 60°C hot water tap in just five seconds.

Prevention

• Always supervise your child in the bath
• If possible turn your hot water thermostat down to 46°C
• Alternatively fit a thermostatic mixing valve which blends hot and cold water to a safe level
• Never run the hot water first – instead run cold first or use a mixer tap
• Test the bath or shower water with your elbow – it should feel neither hot nor cold

Treatment

• Cool the scald as quickly as possible by placing it under cold running water for a few minutes
• Don’t remove anything sticking to the scald as this will do more damage
• Don’t put creams, lotions, butter or anything greasy on the burn
• Cover loosely with a clean, dry cloth, a clean plastic bag (such as a food bag) or cling film to help prevent infection
• Seek immediate medical advice if the burn is large, serious, or in a sensitive area (such as on the face or neck)

2) Drowning

A small child can drown quickly and quietly even in shallow water so it is imperative that you take precautions. Never leave your child unsupervised in the bath and empty the water from a bathtub immediately after use. Also be aware of other drowning risks such as open toilets and buckets of rainwater.

Treatment

• If the child is not breathing start chest compressions and rescue breaths
• If they are breathing but unconscious put them in the recovery position
• Then call 999 for emergency medical help

3) Slipping

Lessen the risk of falling by using a non-slip bath mat and a rug for the floor of the bathroom. Discourage your child from standing in the bath. Bath seats are not recommended, because they can provide you with a false sense of security – a child in a bath seat should not be left unsupervised.

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