Which action is NOT a recommended step in preventing hot-water scald injuries?

• A. Let children adjust taps themselves unsupervised.
• B. Set water heater to 120°F (49°C) or lower.
• C. Test bath water before use.
• D. Supervise baths.

Answer: (A)

Preventing hot-water scald injuries hinges on controlling bathwater temperature and close supervision during baths. Setting the water heater to 120°F (49°C) or lower reduces the maximum bath temperature, so even if a tap is bumped, the water is less likely to cause a severe burn. Always test bath water before placing a child in to ensure it’s safe, since you can’t rely on a child to judge temperature. Supervise baths closely because accidents can happen in seconds and a child may turn a tap or slip. Letting children adjust taps themselves unsupervised is not recommended because they may increase the temperature or leave the bath unattended, creating a high burn risk. The other protective steps—keeping the heater at a safe low temperature, testing the water beforehand, and supervising—help lower the chance of scald injuries.