Bath Safety
The South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) is reminding parents and caregivers that bath time, while often fun and routine, can also pose serious risks for young children if proper precautions are not taken.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, drowning can occur quickly and quietly, even in just a few inches of water. SCDSS encourages families to take simple, preventative steps to help ensure children remain safe during bath time.
“Bath time should be a moment of bonding and joy, not a preventable tragedy,” said Tony Catone, Director of the South Carolina Department of Social Services. “By staying present, reducing distractions, and following basic safety guidelines, parents and caregivers can significantly reduce the risk of injury and help keep our children safe.”
Key bath safety tips include:
- Never leaving children unattended in the bathtub
- Checking water temperature to ensure it is warm, not hot (below 100°F)
- Using non-slip mats to prevent falls
- Keeping soaps, shampoos, and electrical items out of reach
- Making sure the water level is less than two inches deep for children two and under
SCDSS encourages families, child care providers, and community organizations to share bath safety information throughout January and to make bath safety a year-round priority.
Additional Resources & Links:
National Drowning Prevention Alliance
https://ndpa.org/its-national-bath-safety-month/
Nationwide Children's
https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/research/areas-of-research/center-for-injury-research-and-policy/injury-topics/home-safety/bathtub-and-shower-safety
Colin's Hope
https://drowningispreventable.org/national-bath-safety-month/
