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How to Protect Yourself from Scalding in the Shower.

Did you know that scalding accounts for 20% of all accidental burns in the US, and that more than 2,000 children are scalded each year? What’s more, it’s estimated that 200,000 Americans annually suffer additional injuries associated with sudden and extreme changes in water temperature while in the shower or bath. These injuries include slipping, falling, and even heart attacks.

So what causes these potentially dangerous fluctuations in your home’s water temperature? Simply this: a change in your hot or cold water pressure. When hot or cold water is redirected from one area of your home to another – as can happen when one person is taking a shower while another flushes a toilet – the water pressure you’re experiencing in the shower is suddenly reduced. That, in turn, can cause scalding. Just as bad, if not worse, the sudden shock of the change in water temperature can cause you to lose your balance, fall, and incur a more substantial injury.

Fortunately there are steps you can take to keep your family safe from sudden spikes in water temperature and the related injuries these occurrences can cause.

1. Lower the setting on your water heater thermostat. Most experts recommend keeping your water heater thermostat between 120 – 125 degrees F. Higher temperatures can cause serious burns, especially for children since their skin is much thinner than that of an adult. Reducing the temperature setting also can save you up to 15% per year on home utility costs.

2. Never leave children unattended during bath time. Gather everything you need for their bath prior to filling the tub or starting the shower. Once the tub is filled to the desired level, test the water, adjust as necessary, and then place your child inside.

3. Make sure your tub and shower area has some combination of grab bars, non-slip flooring or mats, or shower seats. This is especially important for members of your family who might have difficulty keeping their balance.

4. Install anti-scald valves in your tubs and showers. These maintain a safe and comfortable water temperature even when water pressure is diverted from one source to another. What’s more, anti-scald valves can be installed one fixture at a time or right at your water heater for whole-house protection.

At Messmer Mechanical, your family’s ongoing comfort and safety remain squarely at the top of our list of priorities. For more information on anti-scald valves and additional plumbing safety tips, we invite you to contact us by phone or email today.