Kansas Child Death Review Board cautions against burn accidents
Feb. 9, 2007 -- With the National Burn Awareness Week well under way, the State Child Death Review Board reminds Kansans that close supervision of children is critical to avoid burn injuries.Burns are among the most painful injuries a person can sustain, and often lead to lifelong scars, psychological trauma or even death.
Accidental burns are the 5th most common cause of injuries to children. Parents should be diligent and keep children away from objects that cause burns such as stoves, chemicals, heaters and hot water. There is simply no substitute for active supervision.
The SCDRB recommends the following safety tips:
- Keep matches, gasoline, lighters and all other flammable materials locked
away and out of children’s reach. - Do not leave the handles of pots and pans hanging over the edge of a stove or counter.
- Keep all unused electrical outlets covered with child proof outlet covers.
- Keep electrical cords and extension cords in good working order and out of the path of children.
- Do not allow children to add wood to a fireplace or wood burning stove.
- Do not allow children to sleep by, or play next to, an electrical or propane heater.
- Use anti-scald devices for faucets and shower heads and set your water heater temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
The SCDRB urges parents to pay close attention to their children’s surroundings. Taking a few extra precautions can save children from a painful burn injury.
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The SCDRB is a multi-disciplinary, multi-agency board that examines the circumstances surrounding the deaths of all Kansas children (birth through 17 years-of-age) and children who are not Kansas residents, but who die in the state. The goals of the SCDRB are to describe the trends and patterns of child deaths in Kansas, to develop prevention strategies, and to improve sources of data and communication among agencies. The Board works toward lowering child deaths in Kansas through research, education, and legislation.
For additional information, contact Angela Nordhus, Executive Director, at (785) 296-7970.