Burns Prevention

Prevention

Most burns are the result of accidents. To prevent burns:

• Teach children about fire prevention and keep dangerous materials out of reach.
• Make sure smoke detectors are installed and in working order. Replace batteries twice a year. (One way to remember to do this is to change batteries the same days you change the clocks for daylight savings time.)
• When cooking, keep pot handles turned toward the back of the stove.
• Supervise young children in the kitchen and around fireworks.
• Set the temperature on the water heater to less than 120°F and test the bath water before your child gets in.
• Make sure children’s sleep wear is flame-retardant.
• Don’t hold children in your arms or lap while cooking, serving, or eating hot foods or liquids.
• Do not leave matches, lighters, candles, or burning cigarettes unattended.
• Wear protective gloves and clothing when handling caustic chemicals.
• Put protective covers on electrical outlets.
• Do not wear loose-fitting sleeves while cooking.
• Keep children and pets away from the stove while cooking.
• Make sure electrical cords are not hanging over the edge of countertops.
• Store chemicals and cleaners in a locked cabinet.
• Children younger than one year can sustain partial-thickness burns from hot seat belt straps or buckles in car seats. Make sure car seats are not hot before putting a child in the seat. If you park in the sun, cover the seat with a towel.