Pediatric Scalds: A Burning Issue
| DO | DON’T |
|---|
| Set water heater temperature to no higher than 120°F/48°C, or just below the medium setting. | Leave a child unattended in the bathtub; if you must leave, take the child(ren) with you. |
| Create a “no kid zone” in the kitchen around stoves, ovens, and hot items. | Allow young children to adjust the water temperature or sit near faucet handles. |
| Keep hot drinks away from the edge of tables and counters. | Set anything hot on tabletops within reach of young children who can pull them down. |
| Use a travel mug with a tight‐fitting lid for all hot drinks. | Build a fire if conditions are dry or if forest fire danger is High |
| Place pots and pans on the back burner with handles turned away from the edge of the stove. | Allow appliance cords (slow‐cookers, deep fryers, coffeemakers) to dangle over the counter edge. |
The Facts
- The average annual cost of scald injuries is $44 million.
- Over 136,000 children were seen in emergency rooms for burn injuries in 2011.
- 1,100 children die each year from fire and burns.
The FixShould a burn injury occur…
- Cool the burn with COOL (not cold) water to stop the burning process.
- Remove all clothing and/or diaper from the injured area.
- Cover the area with a clean dry sheet or bandages.
- Seek medical attention.