The first full week in February is the American Burn Association’s Burn Awareness Week (Feb 6 – 10, 2023). During this week, organizations unite to share common burn awareness and prevention messages in our communities. The 2023 Burn Awareness Week topic is Scald Burn Prevention. Hot Liquids Burn Like Fire
The American Burn Association (ABA) is is dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by burn injury.
Remember these tips to prevent scald burns.
Preventing Scald Burns in the Kitchen
- Use the back burners of the stove and keep pot handles turned away from the edge to keep hot food and liquid out of reach of children.
- Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
- Keep hot drinks off of low tables and away from edges of countertops. Use a travel mug with a lid around children.
- Heat items in the microwave in intervals so they do not get too hot. Open lids so that the steam escapes away from your face and arms.
- Help children carry hot food or liquids to a stable surface.
- Don’t allow children to use oven, stove, or microwave without supervision.
- Do not hold children while cooking in the kitchen.
Preventing Scald Burns in the Bathroom
- Never leave a child alone in the bathroom.
- Test your water using a bath thermometer, ensure bath water is not more than 100 degrees.
- Check your water heater temperature to ensure it is no more than 120 degrees.
Blog submitted by:
Creason Walter
Community Outreach Specialist
Injury Prevention
Johns Hopkins Children’s Center
