Showering is a simple, straightforward part of your daily routine. It’s a healthy, hygienic practice that refreshes and revitalizes your body. It’s also cleansing for your skin. However, showering can pose a clear and present danger to your safety. With the amount of time spent in the shower, it’s no surprise that it’s a place where you can get easily injured. Studies show that the average adult spends two years of their life in the shower.
Most accidents occur in the bath and shower when bathing or cleaning due to slippery floors. The shower is where most injuries happen in the home after the kitchen. There are practices to avoid to ensure your safety.
1. Poorly installed shower heaters
When installing hot shower equipment, ensure that the wiring is properly insulated. The instant shower is an electrocution threat. The cables used should be at least 4.5mm and of high quality. Poorly installed wiring can melt and burn the sheathing. Mixing up earthing and live wires can lead to electrocution.
The switch should be outside to reduce the chances of water getting on it. The shower head should also be installed as high as possible.
The showerhead should also be inspected periodically. The inspector should check the temperature and pressure relief valve. This prevents any explosions if the temperature and pressure exceed the safe limit. If water isn’t flowing freely, the pressure valve should be replaced.
2. Slippery floors
Many houses have tiles in bathrooms for easier cleaning. However, many builders fail to consider that the bathroom is a place with lots of moisture. Without the right footwear, it’s easy to slip and fall. It’s important to have slippers with better grip. Also, install a handlebar to help you in case you fall. You should also add a nonslip mat outside your bath to prevent slips when you climb out.
One of the most prevalent accidents in showers is slips and falls. This can lead to bruises, fractures, or dislocations. It has even led to deaths sometimes. Having an anti-slip mat outside the bathroom also helps dry the soles of your feet or slippers. The mat should be made from dry materials to prevent mould growth.
3. Not cleaning your bathroom regularly
The moisture build-up in the bathroom can lead to the growth of mildew and mould. If not regularly cleaned, black mould could grow in the corners and along the seams of the wall. This can lead to respiratory problems, allergic reactions, memory loss, skin irritation, nausea, asthma, and lung infections.
Invest in anti-fungal cleaners or bleach. You can use vinegar for daily cleaning. When using bleach, you must be careful to rinse it all because the fumes can be dangerous to inhale. Use a mask and gloves when cleaning. Black mould may require a specialist to clean the bathroom.
Cracked tiling grout and leaky showers can also increase the risk of mould reoccurring. You may need to buy sealant to prevent mould from growing in the grout. If your shower or taps leak, get a plumber to seal or reinstall them.
4. Running your bath too hot
An extremely hot shower or bath can damage your skin by depleting natural oils. However, studies show that baths that are too hot can lead to cardiac arrest. Studies show that running hot baths can lead to coronary syndrome or stroke. The lethargy, or heat illness, can lead to drowning.
Having water running too hot can also cause scalding. This can also be due to the lack of a functioning temperature regulator for your shower. You may need to get it fixed before taking another bath.
5. Watch out for fainting symptoms
A common injury in bathrooms is fainting. This is because of a sudden change in blood pressure or heart rate known as syncope. It happens suddenly but lasts a short time, and the recovery is spontaneous. It’s not always an emergency, but the sudden loss of consciousness in a shower can lead to serious injury.
Dehydration, overheating, emotional distress, and sudden pain can all lead to syncope. If you display symptoms of syncope, install shower bars or safety poles to support you. If you recognize warning signs such as nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, light-headedness, palpitations, and sweating, avoid showering until you feel better. When these symptoms manifest in the shower, lie down with your legs elevated. You can also sit and put your head between your knees. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, they can be a sign of an underlying condition. Without a diagnosis, ensure you seek medical attention.
Check out:
Social Etiquette: Do’s And Don’ts Of Sharing A Bathroom
The Health Benefits Of Taking A Cold Shower
Health: The Hazards Of Showering Every Day
Nine Things You Need To Include In Your First Aid Kit
Skincare: 5 Best Body Washes For Oily Skin
Reasons To Take A Relaxing Bath From Time To Time
Here Are Ways That You Can Use Purple Tea For Your Skin And Hair
![When a mother walks away from her family [iStock]](https://potentash.com/wp-content/themes/jnews/assets/img/jeg-empty.png?x48035)
