Shower Stall and Bathtub Safety

Many people slip and fall while bathing each year. Fortunately, there are ways to make shower stalls safe for children, the elderly, and even able-bodied adults. Many people don't realize the potential for injury until they or a loved one have an accident. By being aware of potential hazards, you can better evaluate the safety of your current bathroom setup.

Many bathtubs and shower stalls are designed to be easy to clean, with smooth and slick surfaces. Slippery floors are a definite hazard, especially to those with compromised balance. A fall in the tub or shower can result in bruises, broken bones, and head injuries. Some manufacturers design bathtubs and shower stalls with floor molding or slightly rougher finishes to help wet feet keep their grip. If you have a naturally slippery tub or shower floor, you may want to invest in a rubber mat to help prevent falls.

Faucets and knobs are handy for hanging things in the shower, but they can also be safety hazards. Children can hit their heads on shower knobs. Adults can hit knobs and tub faucets during a fall, resulting in lacerations and bruises that can turn a minor accident into a serious one. Adults should check the height of the knobs in a shower stall before a child bathes. If the child is at risk for hitting their head, the knobs can be covered with a towel. Many home safety companies make soft covers for bathtub faucets, and knobs that protrude too far from the wall can be replaced with ones that fit closer or are recessed.

Water temperature is another important safety consideration. Each year many people are scalded when they turn the hot water temperature up too high. Children and the elderly are particularly prone to this type of accident. While most adults can remember not to turn the hot water all the way on without adding cold water, it is much safer to turn down the temperature of the water heater to a safe level.