Hot liquids pose a danger, just as a fire does. If not you aren’t careful, hot liquids can cause major injuries.
Here are some tips to help you avoid scald injuries:
- Set the water heater at or below 120 degrees.
- Check the water temperature before putting a child or dependent adult in the shower or bathtub.
- Turn pot handles away from the stove’s edge to prevent objects from being pulled down or knocked over.
- Do not hold a hot beverage while holding a child or caring for a dependent adult.
- Don’t allow children to use a microwave by themselves until they are tall enough to reach it safely and able to understand that hot liquids can cause burns.
- When removing lids from hot foods, lift the lid or cover away from your face or arm to prevent burns from accumulated steam.
- Anti-scald devices can be easily installed on most existing showers, bathtubs, sinks and taps.
- Do not remove the car radiator cap until the engine has cooled.
- Use a large, sturdy tray with a solid lip if it is necessary to move hot liquids while using a wheelchair.
- Always use oven mitts or potholders when moving pots of hot liquid.
Here are some first-aid instructions for scald burns:
- Remove the heat source to prevent further injury.
- Remove any clothing or jewelry near the burned area.
- If a small area, like a finger or hand, is burned (less than 5% total body surface area), cool the area for about five minutes with cool water. Do not use ice or cold water.
- Cover with a clean dry bandage/dressing.
- Elevate affected area to help decrease swelling.
- Keep yourself or the person warm – there is a risk of hypothermia especially with larger burns.
- Seek medical attention if injury needs more care.
For more information on our UofL Health – UofL Hospital – Burn Center, visit UofLHealth.org/Services/Burn-Center.
