by Marijoyce Porcelli

Created on: June 17, 2009   Last Updated: July 12, 2009

It's something we all face. We are out in public and have to go to the bathroom.Usually this isn't much of a problem, but there are still dangers that can lurk in public bathrooms.

First, if the bathroom is filthy, unless you really have to go, find someplace else. When bathrooms aren't kept clean all types of germs or bacteria can hang about just waiting to invade unsuspecting bodies.

It's usually best if you can scout out clean bathrooms in particular areas before they are needed, especially if you have children with you on such outings. And never ever put yourself in a position where a young child will have to go alone into a public bathroom, especially in campgrounds or other places where public bathrooms might be more isolated. Pedophiles often hang out in such areas, hoping for just such a chance. It's not worth risking your child's life to let him or her go alone into a public bathroom.

Think about such a situation ahead of time and take the necessary steps to avoid potential hazards here (and that doesn't include asking a stranger of the same sex to take your child into the appropriate bathroom; that can be just as dangerous).

Even if a child is older (pre-teen or teenager), make sure they visit any public bathroom with a buddy. Again, dangers can lurk even in what might seem to be the safest places.

Never go into a public bathroom alone without a working cell phone. Same for your children. You want a way to be able to call for help if needed to be sure you stay safe in public bathrooms.

Most public bathrooms these days have those hand blowers rather than paper towels. Guess what.That air blowing out of those machines can have bacteria. Keep some small baby wipes or tissue in your purse or pocket and use that to dry your hands. It doesn't hurt either to keep hand sanitizing liquid stored safely in your car somewhere in case you need it.

There are different arguments as to whether you can actually catch something from a public toilet seat, but, regardless of these arguments, it's unsanitary to sit on such a fixture with your bare skin. Line the toilet seat well with strips of toilet paper before sitting down for two reasons - First, it will keep the seat more sanitary for you and the toilet paper can be safely flushed afterwards; plus, there are some nuts out there who think it's funny to put things like an invisible line of super glue onto toilet seats. Once you sit down and your skin sticks to that, you will have to call the paramedics to cut

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>