Unfortunately, this is not the first case of someone dying after using their mobile phone in the bath. In fact, there have been numerous cases in the past year, following the increased number of people using their phone in the bath, whilst it was plugged in charging. 

 

So, out team of Personal Injury solicitors in Preston wonder whether the new way forward may be to promote the use of hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth speakers, to prevent any further incidents from occurring again. 

 

Whilst the use of hands-free technology has been criticised in some settings, such as the potential it has to distract drivers in their cars, the technology could prove to have some major benefits when it comes to preventing death and personal injury, by water related incidents. 

 

For example, Bluetooth mirrors can be installed in the bathrooms, which can sync up to a person’s mobile phone. Alternatively, a cheaper wireless speaker could be used in the bathroom. 

 

In the UK, this is less of an issue, as there cannot be any mains electric plug sockets installed into bathrooms, unless they are a minimum of 3 meters away from the bath or shower (according to https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/guidance/safety-around-the-home/bathroom-safety/). The only sockets which can be closer, are electrical shaver points, however these too have to be a safe distance away from baths or showers to avoid splashes. 

 

In terms of light fittings, a pull cord is preferable over a switch, however switches must be enclosed and out of reach of someone using, or still wet from, the bath or shower.