ANYONE can receive a burn or scald injury (burns caused by hot liquids or steam). Bathing and kitchen-related accidents are the most common causes of scald injuries, but all types of scald and burn injuries can be prevented by making your home a safe environment.
Use this guide to help protect your home and loved ones from serious burn injuries.
Kitchen Safety
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, such as the stove, oven, and microwave.
- Never leave cooking unattended.
- Wear close-fitting clothes and roll up your sleeves while cooking.
- Cook on the back burners and turn pot handles in to prevent accidental spillage.
Bathroom Safety
- Set water heaters at 120F—anything hotter puts those in your household (especially small children and the elderly) at risk for scald injuries.
- Always supervise a child in the bath; do not leave a child unattended for any reason.
- Do not use electrical appliances near the sink or a full tub.
Heating Safety
- Keep flammable materials (including drapes, furniture, and rugs) at least three feet away from space heaters.
- Never leave heaters unattended.
- Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
- Keep children from touching the protective glass screens in front of fireplaces.
- The addition of wood and attendance to the fire should be the responsibility of an adult.
General Safety
- Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and in each bedroom; test monthly, following manufacturer’s instructions.
- Prepare for an emergency by designing an escape plan with the entire family (see resources below).
- Stop, drop, and roll if your clothing catches fire.
- Smokers should never smoke in bed or near flammable materials.
- Store all matches and lighters up high, out of children’s reach.
If you have any questions, please call The Oregon Clinic – Surgical & Burn Specialists: (503) 288-7535 for Portland, or (503) 692-0444 for Tualatin.