The only magazine dedicated to SW Washington families.
The only magazine dedicated to SW Washington families.
Between 2004 and 2008, according to Clark County Public Health, unintentional injury was the leading cause of death among children. One of the most common unintentional injuries among young children is scald burns that can happen during ordinary daily activities: bathing, cooking and eating. Because a young child’s skin is thinner than adults, it can burn quicker; 15 seconds, instead of 30, by a flowing liquid that is 130°. Most scald burns can be prevented by adult supervision and a few protective measures: turn pot handles inward when cooking (when I can, I use the back burner only); thoroughly stir all microwaved food; don’t heat baby bottles in the microwave. Most scald burns happen while bathing.
For an injury free bath time follow these tips:
Burn Awareness and Prevention
By Dawn Johnson
Public Information/Education Officer
Clark County Fire District 6
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Supervise, supervise, supervise!
Supervise, supervise, supervise!•Lower the temperature settings on water heaters to 120° F (49° C) or less.
Lower the temperature settings on water heaters to 120° F (49° C) or less.•Install anti-scald devices on water faucets and shower heads.
Install anti-scald devices on water faucets and shower heads.•When filling the bathtub, turn on cold water first. Mix in warmer water carefully.
When filling the bathtub, turn on cold water first. Mix in warmer water carefully.•Check the water temperature by rapidly moving your hand through the water. If the water feels hot to an adult, it is too hot for a child.
Check the water temperature by rapidly moving your hand through the water. If the water feels hot to an adult, it is too hot for a child.•Use knob covers on faucets.
Use knob covers on faucets.These suggestions may seem obvious, but given the statistics, they cannot be repeated too often. National Burn Awareness Week is February 5th - 11th, 2012.
For more information on family safety, visit www.ccfd6.org or www.facebook.com/ClarkCountyFireDistrict6.
