Burns and fire injuries affect 116,600 children each year in the US, including 600 deaths of children, ages 14 and under. Most injuries occur at home in the kitchen or bathroom.
In Washington State, scald injuries are the second leading cause of death in children ages 0-4 years old.
By taking these simple steps, you can reduce the chances of a scald injury by 75%.
• Lower water heater setting below 120 degrees (most are set to 140 degrees)
• Never leave a child unattended in the kitchen or bathroom
• Install anti-scald devices on water faucets
• Keep bathwater at 100 degrees F and lower (use bath thermometer)
• Keep hot liquids out of child’s reach
Free scald kits, including bath thermometers, are available from the NW Burn foundation (888-662-8767). For more information about keeping your house safe visit safekids.