Minimizing Fall Hazards In The Bathroom

by Kevin Smith Author

Out of all the rooms in the house, the restroom undoubtedly has the highest death count when it comes to fall deaths. It is one of the few rooms guaranteed to not have carpeting on it (given how it would quickly deteriorate from the water) and the moisture that builds up during and after the shower can throw off even the most cautious of house guests. Whether it is for you, a family member, or someone spending the night, you need to make sure your bathroom is safe by considering new installations such as a walk in tub shower while also finding simple methods for giving people a sufficient surface.

Larger and Frequent Towels

The most common method towards preventing falling after a shower is to cover the immediate floor with a towel that someone can put their wet feet on. It is simple and effective, but it also varies on the type of towel you are using. If it is thin and not very soft, then it may not hold up well when putting a larger, slippery body on it. It will also be inefficient if it is small, as the person has a better chance of slipping on it or not transferring well to the other parts of the floor. Try getting larger towels that can cover more of the surface and allow the user to walk more freely around the area. Make sure you have enough back up towels for guests, as used or wet towels do not hold up that well on the floor.

Sturdy and Gripping Installments

There are plenty of items you can set up in your bathroom to make the brief trip safer. You could install safety bars right next to the tub to prevent those from falling inside of it and bashing their head against porcelain. You could have a walk in tub shower so the user does not have to risk slipping by stepping over the tall entrance of the tub. You could make sure the sink has enough distance between the tub and the entrance to hold on to something when you are walking out of the bathtub. Examine your layout closely and see what needs to be changed or listen to the feedback of other people on how the slightest of additions can make your place safer. It is not something that can be fixed immediately, but you should consider some of these newer additions soon so the chances of a slip accident in your house does not sit on your consciousness.