Whether your child can't wait to splash in the tub or views bath time as cruel and unusual punishment, you always need to keep safety in mind when it comes to bathing. Below is a list of useful tips that can help your child stay safe in the bath.

Gather supplies first. Collect soap, towel, diaper, clothing, toys, and any other items you plan on using before you even run the bath water. Place these items where you can reach them easily. Trying to keep one hand on a slippery little body while stretching for the shampoo isn't safe for anyone!

Supervision. Until your child is age six or so, never leave him or her unattended or under the supervision of a sibling younger than junior high school in the bathtub. There is nothing important enough to risk drowning, and when it comes to bathtubs, the potential is real.

Don't run to answer the phone.
Don't check to see who is at the door.
Don't leave your child to be watched by an older brother or sister.

Remember, about 80 children drown in bathtubs each year. Don't let your child be another number in that statistic. Make no exceptions to this rule. Simply put: Don't Leave!

Hands on. Kneel beside the bathtub and keep one hand always firmly around your child. Infants and young children want to crawl and stand as they play, but it's important for their safety that you keep them sitting while they bathe.

Water heater. To reduce the risk of scalding, set your home's water heater to a maximum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A good way to test for a safe temperature: You should be able to hold your hand comfortably under the tap even when the hot water alone is running.

Bath temperature. Fill the tub before your child gets in and make sure that the water is a comfortable temperature. If you need to add more water while your child is in the tub, position him or her well away from the faucet, check the temperature of the bath frequently, and always turn off the hot water before the cold if there are separate controls. When your child is very young, teach your child that he or she is not allowed to touch the faucet handles. As your child gets older, teach your child how to control the hot and cold water.

Faucet covers. Placing a soft, insulated cover over the bathtub faucet is a prudent safeguard against accidental burns or bumps. They are available at many baby-supplies stores, and often come in the form of engaging rubber animals to add to bath-time fun.

Bath seats. Several types of bath seats and rings adhere to the bottom of the tub with suction cups and offer bathing infants and toddlers support while sitting. These are fine to use, but don't let them lull you into thinking that you can leave your child unattended. The suction cups can come loose, and it isn't hard for a child to slide out of the seats.

Mats and decals. Prevent bathtub falls by placing a rubber mat in the tub or affixing non-slip adhesive decals or strips to the bottom of the tub. They are readily available at hardware or baby-supplies stores and come in a variety of colors and designs.

Electrical hazards. Keep electrical devices (including hair dryers, curling irons, and electric razors) well away from the tub. Also, make sure that any outlets near the tub are the type that meet safety standards to protect them from water.

Slippery floors. Wet kids and slippery floors don't mix. Be sure to use (and teach your child to use) extra caution and keep a non-slip bathroom rug by the side of the tub for your child to step onto after bathing.