Safe Kids Snohomish County observes Burn Awareness Week, February 1-7th. Safe Kids Snohomish County reminds parents and caregivers that fire is just one cause of burn injuries — children can also be seriously injured by hot foods and beverages, heating appliances, hot pots and pans, electrical currents and chemicals. Here are some tips to keep your children safe:
- Reduce your water heater temperature from 140 degrees to 120 degrees fahrenheit. "Anti-scald" devices can be put on faucets for about $40 per application.
- Prevent spills. When cooking with hot pots and pans, use the back burner. Avoid wearing long sleeves or similar baggy type clothing. Place hot containers away from the edges of tables and counter tops.
- Establish a "kid-free zone" in the kitchen. A 3 foot buffer zone surrounding the stove is a good idea. Use brightly colored tape to signal the kid-free area.
- Test hot food and drink temperature. Make sure it's not too hot. A good place to check the temperature is using your wrists, palm side up. If it is too hot for your wrist, it is too hot for your child(ren).
- Keep electrical cords out of reach to children. Keep all electrical appliances away from bathtubs and showers. Do not leave hot irons unattended.
- Child proof your home. Cover up electrical outlets. Lock away matches, lighters, flammables and candles from children.
- Actively Supervise. Just being in the same room is not enough. Pay close attention to the whereabouts and behaviors of your children.
- Fireworks are not to be handled or ignited by children.
- Keep a fire alarm on every level of your home. Keep another alarm in every sleeping area. Test the batteries monthly and replace the batteries annually.
For more information on how to keep your young ones safe from burns, check out www.usa.safekids.org.
