Protecting your kids at home from burns

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – According to the American Burn Association, burns are in the top 10 causes of unintentional injuries for children from ages of zero to five. With two years and younger at the greatest risk.

If your child has a burn, Kailyn Allen at Sanford says you should not pour really, cold water onto it because that can cause further issues.

“A burn can cause a person to actually experience a sense of shock sometimes and that shock of the cold is going to do more damage than good. Whereas tepid water or room temperature water is going to cool that burn and stop that burning process.” said Allen, a community life educator.

Here are burn and scald prevention tips to keep the kids at home safe:

• Childproof your electrical outlets and appliances.
• Check to make sure the water temperature is just right for washing.
• Use the back burner and oven mitts
• And be careful with the microwave.

“Important things to note are when you do work in the kitchen if you can set aside a three foot area that’s kind of a child-free zone especially for those little ones under the age of five. I will say that children who are two and under are at the greatest risk. So a lot of times that might mean instead of holding baby while you’re cooking which can lead to serious burns and scalds. Find a safe place like a high chair to put baby in.” said Allen.

And a reminder to never leave open flames alone in a room with kids.

This is National Burn Awareness Week.