Keeping NJ Families Safe at Home
January in New Jersey means cold weather, more time indoors, and a lot more use of bathrooms for hot showers and baths. It’s also National Bath Safety Month, which makes this the perfect time to talk about keeping one of the most accident-prone rooms in your home safe—especially for older adults and young children.
At Signature Plumbing, we work in NJ homes every day, and we see firsthand how small upgrades and simple precautions can make a big difference in preventing slips, falls, and injuries.
Why Bathroom Safety Matters
Bathrooms are responsible for a high number of household accidents. Wet surfaces, tight spaces, and temperature changes can all create risks, particularly for seniors and kids.
Winter adds another layer:
- Hotter water temperatures increase burn risk
- Cold tile floors become more slippery
- Steam and condensation make surfaces slick
A few proactive steps can go a long way.
Bath Safety Tips for seniors
As we age, balance, strength, and reaction time can change. Here are practical ways to make bathrooms safer for seniors:
1. Install Grab Bars (Not Towel Bars)
Grab bars near the tub, shower, and toilet provide real support. Towel bars are not designed to hold body weight and can pull out of the wall.
2. Use Non-Slip Surfaces
- Non-slip mats inside and outside the tub
- Textured flooring or anti-slip coatings
These reduce fall risk dramatically.
3. Consider a Walk-In Shower or Tub
Walk-in tubs and curbless showers eliminate the need to step over a high tub wall, which is a common cause of falls.
4. Improve Lighting
Good lighting helps prevent missteps—especially during early mornings or nighttime bathroom trips.
Bath Safety Tips for Young Children
Bath time should be fun, but it also requires constant attention.
1. Always Supervise
Never leave a child alone in the bath—even for a moment. Most accidents happen quickly and quietly.
2. Set Water Heater Temperature
Hot water can cause burns in seconds. Set your water heater to 120°F or lower to prevent scalding.
3. Use Non-Slip Mats
Kids move a lot in the tub. Non-slip mats help keep them steady while bathing.
4. Check Fixtures and Drains
Loose faucets, sharp edges, or slow drains can all become hazards. Regular plumbing checks help catch issues early.
Plumbing Upgrades That Improve Bathroom Safety
Many safety improvements are simple plumbing projects:
- Grab bar installation
- Anti-scald valves and mixing valves
- Faucet and fixture repairs
- Shower and tub conversions
- Drain repairs to prevent standing water
These upgrades don’t just improve safety—they also add comfort and value to your home.
Start the Year Safer with Signature Plumbing
January is a great time to take a fresh look at your home and make improvements that protect the people you care about most.
If you’re in New Jersey and want help making your bathroom safer for seniors, children, or the whole family, Signature Plumbing is here to help. We’ll walk you through smart, practical options that fit your home and budget.
Contact Signature Plumbing today to schedule a bathroom safety inspection or upgrade. A safer home starts with the right plumbing.