Can Be Devastating

 

 

 

Thousands of Canadians are rushed to hospital every year as a result of scalds.  But most of these injuries could have been prevented.  The vast majority of injuries are suffered in the home and those most at risk are young children and the elderly.

Test Your Taps

Many scald injuries can be prevented simply by turning down the temperature of your hot water heater.  If it's much over 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit)  it's hot enough to burn.  For example, it takes only one second to receive a serious third degree burn from water that is heated to 69 degrees Celsius.  Using the dial on your hot water heater is a guessing game.  To be sure the temperature of your water is safe, run the tap on full hot for 3 minutes and test the water with a meat thermometer.  If it's too hot, adjust it downward and check it again the next day.

Babes Are Easily Burned

Data collected from the emergency rooms of 15 Canadian hospitals found that children less than 2 years of age represented 68% of all those scalded aged 6 and younger.  And of those little ones who were burned, half received injuries to their feet and legs as they were placed into bath water.  Run cold water first and add warmer water to it.  Check the bath first.  38 degrees Celsius is warm enough.  Avoid distractions while bathing baby.  Take the phone off the hook if need be.

Sensible Around Steam

Steam burns are very painful and easy to avoid.  Put the kettle on the back burner or back from the edge of the countertop.  Children think steam looks fun to touch.  Another common source of steam burns are microwave ovens.  Hot food will give off steam as it is removed from the oven and shrink wrap is peeled off or container lids are lifted.  Poke holes in the wrapping or crack the lid open to let off steam.  Use oven mitts to protect your hands.

Stop The Burn From Spreading

Scalds should be treated like other burns, by running cold water over them and then seeking medical attention.  Never put ointment, butter or lotion on a scald.