Bathroom Safety
Bathtub safety
Most bathroom falls occur while getting in and out of the bathtub. Improve your safety by using:
- a non-slip bath mat in the tub. Use a mat with suction cups or stick-on rubber appliqués on the back.
- a non-skid bath mat on the floor beside the tub. Rubber-backed mats are good.
- grab bars around the bathtub
Two sets of grab bars are usually needed—one set for getting in and out of the tub, and another for getting into or up from a seated position in the tub. If your bathtub does not have a surround, get a floor-to-ceiling vertical pole installed beside the tub. Grab bars should be made of institutional grade stainless steel and installed according to the manufacturer’s directions. If you have a related disability, programs like Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program may cover some of the cost of grab bars.
Towel racks or improperly installed grab bars must never be used to support your weight!
Bath chairs and flexible shower arms are also available for people with multiple disabilities.
Additional safety tips
- Always ensure medications are labeled effectively. Keep them in their proper containers or in dosettes you know how to use.
- Label cleaning products effectively and know how to use them safely. Rinse the tub thoroughly after cleaning as the cleaning product can be slippery.
See the Health Canada website for more information about preventing falls in the bathroom or around the home. For additional information about health, safety, and injury prevention in general, see The Canadian Health Network.