Keeping Kids Safe From Burns

An average of two children die from burns and more than 300 are treated for such injuries in U.S. emergency departments every day, a burn expert says.

Burns are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the United States, and children are particularly vulnerable.

Young children are at increased risk for accidental burns because their mental and physical abilities are not fully developed. Also, they have thinner skin layers than adults, which means they suffer deeper burns at lower temperatures and more quickly, the experts explained.

tips on preventing burns in children.

Make sure coffee cups and tea mugs have lids, and never carry hot liquids while holding a child. Never place hot liquids on low coffee tables or end tables that can be reached by young children, and don’t use table cloths or place mats that a child can pull down.

Keep clothes irons, curling irons, etc., unplugged and out of reach of children. When cooking, never leave the stove unattended, turn handles of pots and pans toward the rear of the stove, and use back burners when possible.

Water heaters should be set at a maximum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit or just below the medium setting. A safe bathing temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Test the temperature at the faucet with a meat thermometer after running hot water for 1 to 3 minutes. If you have to leave the bathroom while bathing a child, take the child with you.

Don’t give children tasks that are beyond their capabilities, such as bathing, caring for a younger sibling, cooking, or using a microwave.

Preventing Child Burns

Every day, more than 300 children are treated in emergency rooms for burn-related injuries, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To help prevent your child from being burned, the CDC suggests:

• Install and maintain smoke alarms at home.
• Supervise children’s use of stoves, ovens and microwaves.
• Set your water heater’s thermostat to under 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Never leave food unattended on the stove.
• Have a fire escape plan.