According to the National Safety Council, there are approximately 200,000 home accidents each year, 70% of of them occur in the bathroom. The combination of water and smooth surfaces contributes to an increased risk of slips and falls, and a greater risk of serious injury. When we think bathtub safety, most consumers think bath mats but there are many more bathtub safety products available that help ensure safety in the bathroom. 
Grab bars and shower safety rails are inexpensive products that are easy to install and come in many shapes and sizes. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, installing grab bars in shower enclosures and near the entrance of the tub greatly decreases the chance of accidental falls. Bathtub safety bars are constructed of plastic, aluminum, or steel, and usually screw into the wall. Bathroom rails can also be used for toilet safety by installing on the wall next to the commode.
Wall mounted grab bars are available in a variety of colors and textures (grips) and can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or diagonally in the tub or by the commode. There are also shower safety bars that move in step during standing and transferring in the bathroom. Under no circumstance should towel rods be used as a shower safety rail.
Safety bars also known as bathtub grab bars that mount to the side of the tub are the easiest to install for tub safety. Some models only require a socket wrench and a screwdriver and can be installed in a matter of minutes. This type of bathtub safety bar can also be removed easily without leaving permanent marks on the bathtub. Keep in mind that many bathroom bars and toilet safety rails aren't designed to support a heavy weight. They should be thought of as an assist only.
A toilet safety frame fits around or over the toilet and provides armrests for support as the user stands up or sits down. Toilet safety bars use the existing bolts that hold your toilet seat. Make sure these bolts are metal before installing toilet safety rails. Another option for toilet safety support is an elevated or raised toilet seat. Some toilet bars come with a self-powered, lifting seat that helps users gently seat and raise themselves. These self raising seats provide safe, controlled support and lift up to 70% of a user's weight up to 300 lbs.
A shower chair or bath bench is a great addition to your bath safety campaign especially for arthritis sufferers. When bathers can no longer safely or comfortably get down into the bathtub or stand to take a shower, shower chairs offer the needed help. Bath transfer benches allow users to sit outside the bath and slide while seated into the tub. This can reduce the risk of falls getting in and out of the bathtub. Shower bath chairs come in many shapes and sizes. Folding shower chairs are a handy option when only one person in the family needs a chair during bathing. For additional safety and comfort, choose a padded shower chair with suction cup feet.
Some final bathroom safety tips:
• Remove any throw rugs from the bathroom and all corridors leading to the bathroom.
• Ensure that appropriate lighting is available in both the bathroom and hall.
• Placement of several night lights may aide in bathroom safety as well.