Children can get serious burns from bathwater that is too hot. Water over 140 degrees can give a child third-degree burns in just 5 seconds, and water over 150 degrees can cause the same burns in just 2 seconds, notes the medical advisory board of BabyCenter.com. Children who have been scalded by bath water may need medical attention, particularly if the area is over 2 or 3 inches in diameter or if severe pain or blisters are present. Parents can guard their children from these types burns by learning the appropriate way to run bath water.
Step 1
Turn on the tub faucet. As the water is running, check the temperature with your forearm or elbow. The temperature should feel warm but not hot. You also can use a baby bathwater thermometer to verify that the temperature is between 90 and 100 degrees.
Step 2
Continue to let the water run until the tub is filled to the desired level. It is typically safest to use as little water as possible for a baby. Two inches is a good amount, suggests the Consumer Reports website.
Step 3
Turn off the faucet and check the tub again. Use your forearm, elbow or a bathtub thermometer as you did when the water was running. Check all areas of the tub water to ensure there are no hot spots.
Step 4
Bathe your child. Keep her turned away from the faucet to prevent her from accidentally turning on the hot water. Do not add more water while your child is in the tub. Always stay within an arm's reach when your child is in the water. Never leave her unattended.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure you have everything you need for the bath -- soap, shampoo, bath toys, wash cloth, towel -- before you begin filling the tub. Set your water heater to 120 degrees to prevent accidental burns from scalding water. If you live in an apartment or other dwelling that does not let you control the temperature of your water heater, consider purchasing an anti-scald device. These products are available at most home improvement stores and can be installed by you or a plumber.
- Metal spigots also can become quite hot and could burn children. Install a cover for the spout to protect your child. Children can drown in less than 1 inch of water. Always empty the tub immediately after bath time to prevent children from falling into a tub of water when you aren't looking.
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