Reduce scald injuries to children

If you're like most people, when you think of burn injuries, you think of burns caused by flames or by contact with extremely hot objects. So when you set out to protect your child from burn injuries, you probably focus on such dangers as the fireplace, the space heater, the iron, the stove, and lighters and matches. That's good but don't stop there.

All types of burns can be severe, but scald burns are of special concern because many parents and caregivers don't realize the dangers of hot liquids, foods and tap water.

Burns are among the most painful and devastating injuries. Patients can face extended and painful hospitalization, disfigurement, and lifelong disability, as well as painful emotional scars.

Most scald injuries occur in the kitchen and bathtub.

In the Bathtub
·Never leave a young child alone in the bathtub.
·Test the water before you put your child in the bathtub.
·Run cold water first, then add hot water to adjust the temperature.
·Face your child away from the bathroom fixtures. Children are less likely to manipulate faucets that are out of sight.
·If you have access to your home's water heater, lower the thermostat to 120 degrees.
·If you live in an apartment or other multi-family building, install inexpensive mechanical safety valves on your bathtub and shower fixtures, or talk to your landlord about installing them. These valves instantly reduce the water flow to a trickle if they "sense" scalding water

In the Kitchen
·Keep young children out of the kitchen when cooking is taking place.
·Keep appliance cords out of reach so young children can't pull on them.
·Many injuries occur when young children pull on tablecloths or place mat edges and pull hot foods or drinks down on themselves. If young children are in your home, avoid place mats and tablecloths. Keep hot food away from table edges.
·Place pots on back burners and turn all pot handles toward the back of the stove.

Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.