Children grow fast and can reach new dangerous things every day that can burn them. Being consciously aware of possible risks and making provisions is an important factor in burn prevention. Below are a few tips in preventing scald burns with children.
- Establish a “No Kids Zone” in the kitchen. Safe play areas should be out of the traffic path between the stove and sink, where children can play and be supervised.
- It takes less than a second to get a third degree burn from 68°C heated water. Coffee is often served at 79°C, making it high-risk for causing immediate severe scald burns.
- Supervision is the single most important factor in preventing tap water scalds. If you must leave the bathroom while a bathing a child, take them with you.
- Test the temperature of the water in the bathtub with your elbow or hand with spread fingers. The water should feel warm, NOT hot to touch.
- Don’t make hot coffee, tea, or hot chocolate in a mug that a child normally uses. Consider using mugs with tight-fitting lids, like travel mugs, when children are around instead. Got a kid? Get a lid!
- When microwaving food, steam inside covered containers can quickly reach over 93°C and burn your hands and face. Tip: Puncture plastic wrap or use vented containers to allow steam to escape while cooking. Or, wait at least one minute before removing the cover. When removing covers, lift the corner farthest from you and away from your face and hands.
- Microwave ovens are thought to be safer than conventional ovens, but microwaves can still cause scald burns. Microwaves heat foods and liquids to very high temperatures and can cause scald burns from spills, steam, and splashes.
- Microwaved foods and liquids may reach temperatures greater than boiling without the appearance of bubbling. Also, food heats unevenly in microwaves. Jelly fillings may be extremely hot, even if the outside of the food is warm.
- Water pressure may fluctuate due to running water in other parts of the home. Avoid flushing toilets, running water, or using the dishwasher or washing machine while someone is showering to prevent sudden surges of scalding water.
- Use non-slip placemats instead of tablecloths around toddlers as they may use the tablecloth to pull themselves up.
- Tablecloths can become tangled in crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs, causing hot liquids to spill off the table.
- Always use oven mitts or potholders when moving pots of hot liquid or hot food.
- Keep all pot handles turned back, away from the stove to avoid curious fingers.
- Never hold hot liquids when carrying a child.
- Never place hot liquids on low coffee tables or end tables that are in reach for a young child.
Ref: American Burn Association 2019
The above list is for information purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Have peace of mind and keep Burnshield nearby especially in areas where one can get burnt. Always seek medical attention.
