When you’ve got children in the house, of course, you want to keep them as safe as possible. This includes when using plumbing fixtures in the bathroom and kitchen. To maximize your kids’ safety, it is best to always supervise them when using the shower, bathtub, toilet, or sink. However, there are other steps you can take to protect them as well.
Kids’ Safety and Bathroom Doors
The best way to keep your little kids safe from potential plumbing issues is to keep them away from the fixtures entirely. A simple latch on your bathroom door can do the trick and won’t take you long to install. Be sure to place it high enough that your child won’t be able to reach it until they are old enough to understand how to use plumbing properly. What may be a minor inconvenience for you could be lifesaving for your little one.
Install Anti-Scald Valves on Your Faucets
When your child is using the sink, whether, in the bathroom or kitchen, they can burn themselves on when the water is too hot. These valves can make sure that the hot water isn’t so hot that it will burn your child. Anti-scald valves will preserve your kids’ safety if they touch the faucet. It is also a good idea to set your water heater to no higher than 120 degrees to prevent burns from overly hot water.
Lock Toilet Lids for Kids’ Safety
For whatever reason, young children seem to love playing with toilets. However, not only is this unsanitary, but it can also be dangerous. Your little one could be seriously injured if they climb on top of the toilet and fall in. While there is no replacement for adult supervision in the bathroom, a lid lock can do wonders for your kids’ safety. In addition to protecting your child, it will also prevent them from flushing foreign objects down the toilet. This can lead to blockages, which can be costly to repair.
Use Non-Slip Mats in Your Bathtubs and Showers
Even adults can slip and fall on wet shower floors, and children who are unsteady on their feet are even more prone to these types of accidents. A non-slip mat on the floor of your shower and tub can eliminate this risk to your kids’ safety, and it will benefit you as well. If you plan to remodel your bathroom, you can even have your new shower or tub made from a material that is naturally slip-resistant. This way, you won’t need to use a mat at all.
Keep Your Dishwasher Closed
Many people don’t close their dishwashers all the way when not in use. However, when the dishwasher door is open even just a crack, your child could be in danger. Not only are there likely to be sharp objects in the dishwasher like knives and forks, but your little one could also get stuck inside. There is also the possibility of them breaking internal components of your dishwasher, resulting in expensive repairs or even full replacement. To minimize your and your child’s risk, always close and latch your dishwasher door when it is not running. If your dishwasher has a child lock feature, be sure to use it!
Get Help with Your Plumbing
Whether you already have several kids or have your first one on the way, it is never too early or too late to start childproofing your home. If you need assistance throughout the process or with any other plumbing needs, get in touch with Forrest Anderson. We’ll be happy to help keep the plumbing in your Phoenix home flowing smoothly.
Contact Forrest Anderson Today!