Bathtubs, Buckets, and Toilets! Oh My!

Most parents worry about swimming pools and bathtubs but there are hidden dangers around the house too!  An April 2011 report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicates that from 2005-2009, there were about 660 submersion incidents involving children younger than five years old in non-pool and non-spa products.  Bathtubs, buckets, and toilets are just a few examples of places around the home where a young child can drown if not monitored properly. 

Here are some prevention tips that ISR of Lake Lanier has put together from the CPSC and various water safety programs: 

1.  Never leave young children alone near any water or tub or basin with fluid. Young children can drown in
     even small amounts of water.

2.  Always keep a young child within arm’s reach in a bathtub. If you must leave, take the child with you.

3.  Don’t leave a baby or young child in a bathtub under the care of another young child.

4.  Never leave your child unattended in a tub or shower. If you use a bath seat or bathing cradle, do not be lulled
     into a false sense of security and keep an eye on them at all times. Children have drowned in tubs while
     strapped into these devices that have tipped over and trapped their faces underwater.

5.  Keep all bathing equipment – like sponges, soaps and towels – nearby and within arm’s reach so you do not
     need to let go of your child or turn your back on them while they are in the tub or shower to retrieve that
     equipment.

6.  Keep toilet lids shut and use toilet locks to prevent toddlers from climbing or falling into the toilet. Children have
     actually drowned in toilets by climbing on them and falling in headfirst, where they get stuck and are unable to
     lift their heads above the water to breathe.

Lastly, contact ISR of Lake Lanier (r.adams@infantswim.com) or www.infantswim.com to get more information about enrolling your child in our Nationally Recognized Aquatic Self-Rescue™ Survival Swim Lessons program!

Copyright © 2012 ISR of Lake Lanier, LLC

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