Potential situations with risk for drowning:
(1) swimming
(2) bathing
Steps to reduce risk while swimming:
(1) Never swim alone.
(2) Do not swim in open waters.
(3) Swim at swimming pools with a lifeguard or other supervision.
(4) Diving should be avoided or done only with care.
Steps to reduce risk while bathing:
(1) Never lock the bathroom door while bathing.
(2) Avoid bathing facilities which may be hazardous if a seizure occurs (glass shower stall, sharp edges, fall hazard, etc.).
(3) Children should take a bath only when supervised.
(4) Showering with the drain open is preferred, done seated with a hand controlled spray if seizure activity is significant.
In addition, a parent with significant epilepsy should not bathe an infant or small child unless accompanied by someone.
A patient with frequent and poorly controlled epilepsy needs to be more careful in observing these steps.
