National Bath Safety Month calls for preventive safety measures

January is National Bath Safety month and it's a good time to take a look around and see how you can make your bathroom safer for children, grandchildren, adults and yourself. The Home Safety Council offers many tips and suggestions to keep everyone safer.

Rubber mats, grab bars and other things make rooms safer for older people and children. Special precautions should also be taken for children and they should be protected from things that can harm them, including:

• Hot water - set the hot water temperature lower than 115 degrees if there are babies, toddlers and children in the house
• Cleaning supplies - keep all cleaning supplies out of reach or in locked cabinets
• Medications - keep all medications out of reach and securely locked where children cannot reach them
• Slippery surfaces - place non-skid mats, trips or carpet on bathroom surfaces that could get wet and cause slips and falls.
• Water - never leave young children in the bath or shower unattended. If you must leave the room, wrap them in a towel and take them with you, even if it's just for a minute.
• Sharp objects - keep all sharp objects out of reach
• Toilets - toilet seat locks can be purchased for about $5 and will help ensure that your child doesn't accidentally flush your cell phone or fall head first into the water.
• Poison - in the event of possible poisoning, know what to do. Obtain "Phone Stickers" with the Poison Control's Hotline Number from the Virginia Poison Center in Richmond, Virginia by calling 804.828.4780.

The Children's Hospital of Richmond provides more safety tips on their website along with resources and information to make every area of the home safer. You can also sign-up for their e-newsletters and get periodic updates and information on child health and safety.

Take advantage of National Bath Safety Week to evaluate your bathroom and make sure that you have taken as many safety precautions as possible. Taking proactive steps to ensure bath safety will help ensure a safer, healthier environment for you and your children or grandchildren.