It can happen in a flash with a splash. That’s the message being shared during Burn Awareness Week, Feb. 1-7.
Young children are getting hurt in the kitchen and bathrooms. Their risk of burns from microwaves, falling slow cookers, hot liquids on countertops and scalding bath water has grown. According to a prospective study, about 90% of 2-year-olds can turn on a microwave, open the door and remove contents. Hot water heaters set too high also are to blame for burns. An estimated 40% of urban homes and particularly rental properties have water heaters set to scalding temperatures.
Pediatricians can support Burn Awareness Week by sharing information with parents and reviewing hot tips on AAP and Burn Awareness Week websites:
- AAP News Parent Plus article on microwave safety: http://bit.ly/1SQa60j
- First aid for burns on the Healthy Children site: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/First-Aid-For-Burns.aspx
- Burn prevention checklist for parents: http://bit.ly/1mCmvLm
- Toolkit to promote Burn Awareness Week: http://flashsplash.org/toolkit/
