Burns, scalds, and fire-related injuries continue to be a leading cause of injury among young children, with experts reporting that over 90% of these incidents occur at home—most commonly in the kitchen. Health and safety authorities are urging parents and caregivers to take preventive steps to reduce risks.
According to report by UNICEF, Children under five are especially vulnerable due to their thinner skin and limited ability to recognize hazards. Common sources of burns include open flames, electrical outlets, fireworks, and hot surfaces. Scalds often result from contact with hot liquids like tea, coffee, or bath water.
To address these risks, safety advocates recommend a range of home precautions. These include storing hot liquids out of reach, turning pot handles toward the back of the stove, and using the rear burners when cooking. Parents are also advised to avoid tablecloths that children can pull and to never carry a child while handling hot food or drinks.
Fire prevention measures also include installing smoke alarms on every level of the home and testing them regularly. Families are encouraged to create and practice a fire escape plan, and children should be taught how to “stop, drop, and roll” if their clothing catches fire.
Fireworks and sparklers present additional dangers. Authorities warn that children under five should not handle sparklers, and older children must be closely supervised. Exposure to strong sunlight is another concern, with medical professionals recommending protective clothing and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Tap water scalds are the second most common cause of serious burns in children. Officials recommend setting water heaters to no higher than 50°C (122°F) and testing bath water temperature with a thermometer or hand before use. Children should never be left unattended in the bath, especially while water is running.
In the event of a burn or scald, first aid experts advise cooling the affected area with running cold water for at least 20 minutes and avoiding the use of creams or ointments. Medical attention should be sought for burns on the face, hands, genitals, or for burns that appear deep or cover a large area.
Health professionals are encouraging families to take a basic first aid course to be better prepared in emergencies. According to safety officials, most burn and scald injuries can be prevented with simple but consistent safety measures in the home.
