Never leave a child alone in the bath, even in a bath seat. Drowning can happen in just an inch of water, and it's silent. Use a non-slip mat, a soft spout cover over the faucet, and keep the water temperature below 100 degrees F.
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Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for kids under 5, and it can happen in as little as an inch of water. Constant adult supervision near any water source is non-negotiable. Pool fences, toilet locks, and draining buckets and tubs immediately after use all help.
Water at 140 degrees F can cause a third-degree burn in 3 seconds. Set your water heater to 120 degrees F or lower. Anti-scald valves on faucets add another layer of protection. Always test bath water with your wrist or elbow before putting a child in.
Bathrooms combine water, electricity, slippery surfaces, and toxic products in a small space. Toilet locks, non-slip mats, medicine cabinet locks, and GFCI outlets are baseline requirements. The bathroom door should ideally have a childproof cover or stay locked when not in use.
Active, attentive watching of a child, especially around water, heights, and hazards. Supervision doesn't mean scrolling your phone while your kid plays near the pool. It means eyes-on, within arm's reach when needed, and knowing what to watch for at each developmental stage.