Hot Water

Hot water is used in three main area of the Home:

     Bathroom:  See General Safety-Bathrooms

     Kitchen: See Kitchens-Cooking , and

     Laundry. Children should not be in the laundry while washing.

Generally, hot water systems are turned up too high and water straight from the tap will cause severe scalding: especially on young tender skin. As a child I received bad burns from a cup of coffee placed on a high chair when 18 months old, and facial burns from hot fat when my mother was deep frying when I was about 10 years old. Extreme caution must be exercised when dealing with any hot fluids in the presence of children.

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Other Sources of Burns

Many items of everyday household use can cause burns. Cleaning agents are normally caustic, especially dishwashing detergents and rinses. Burns from flame/heat may be caused by:
	Electric Radiators or other home heating appliances and children must be at a safe distance from them. Some clothing is highly inflammable and may ignite if close to a heater. Parents must ensure children's clothing is classified as safe from ignition.
	Matches and Cigarette Lighters - Children seem fascinated by flame and if they have access to matches or lighters, they WILL play with them. Often with disastrous results. Keep matches and cigarette lighters away from children
	Barbecues - Children should not be allowed too close to a barbecue, as there are many hot items which may cause burns.
	Smoke Detectors - All homes should be protected by smoke detectors. The increased time given to escape a burning house may mean the difference between living or dying, and at the very least, will minimise the risk of burns.
	Chemical Burns - Children must not have access to workshops or other storage areas where chemical products such as paint stripper, acids, etc. are stored.
	Sunburn - A major source of childhood burns. Children should be protected at all times by wearing hats, suitable protective clothing and a high SPF sunscreen when exposed to the sun. The effects of exposure to sunburn are not normally seen until later in life; with premature skin ageing and various skin cancers.

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