Burns in children

Here are some burn prevention strategies that are worthwhile knowing.

1. Eliminating hazards in the kitchen
✅ Do not let cooking appliance electric cords hang off a counter
✅ Avoid leaving unattended pots on a stove
✅ Do not leave hot beverages near the edge of a table

2. Ensuring a safe bathing environment

✅ Test bath and shower water with your hand for 30 seconds
✅ Adjust water heater temperature to a maximum of 48.9 degree Celsius (120 F)

3. Reducing the odds of a burn

✅ Avoid smoking indoors
✅ Do not have a child sit in your lap while you drink a hot beverage
✅ Keep flammable liquids, matches and lighters away from children
✅ Avoid the use of fireworks
✅ Unplug irons and similar devices when not in use
✅ Cover unused electrical outlets with safety caps

4. Be prepared for a fire

✅ Practice home fire drills at home
✅ Teach children to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothing is on fire
✅ Every household should have a functioning fire extinguisher

Parents play an important role in preventing fire and burn injuries. Let us keep our children safe from burns. Stay tuned as the next discussion would be regarding the first aid management for burns.

References:
1. Burn care for children AAP guidelines
2. Children and burns – www.who.int