January 24, 2023 by Rebuilding Together DCA
January is National Bath Safety Month. This month, we are reminded to take extra precautions when bathing and showering. Because bathing and showering is seen as such a routine activity, we often underestimate the dangers that it can have, especially for the youngest and oldest members of our family.
Installing grab bars and non-slip mats are just two of the most effective ways to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. According to the statistics released by the CDC, approximately 235,000 bathroom-related injuries yearly happen to people who are 15 years or older. About 83% of them are seniors who are 65 years or older.
The National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA) states that children should be supervised at all times and never left alone in the bathroom. When bathing children, check to make sure that the water temperature is lukewarm to prevent burns, and use bathmats and rugs on floors to reduce slips and falls.
