Burns prevention and tips

Below are some excellent tips and tricks to help keep you safe against burns and scalds!

While preventing burns and scalds is important, accidents can still happen. Knowing proper first aid can help minimise injury. 

Burns and scalds

1. Cool the affected area immediately with cool running water for at least 20 minutes. 
2. Call for help depending on the severity—consult a pharmacist, GP, call 111, or dial 999 in severe cases. 
3. Cover the burn with cling film or a non-fluffy, clean dressing to protect the area. 

Chemical burns

1. Rinse the affected area thoroughly with cool water to remove the chemical or brush with powder  
2. Remove contaminated clothing carefully to prevent further exposure. 
3. Call 999 for emergency assistance immediately. 

Kitchen safety

• Always turn pot handles toward the back of the stove to prevent accidental knocking. 
• Keep children and pets away from hot appliances and cooking areas. 
• Use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling hot pots, pans, or oven trays. 
• Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying with oil, as grease fires can cause severe burns. 

Hot water bottles — Replace every two years, never fill with boiling water, and always use a protective cover to prevent burns. 

Steam inhalation — Avoid placing a bowl of hot water on your lap. Instead, sit in a steamy shower room, or fill a sink with hot water and lean over it. 

Hot drinks — Keep hot drinks out of reach of children and avoid holding a child while drinking hot liquids or making babies bottles. 

Water temperature — Set your water heater thermostat to a maximum of 49°C to prevent scalding from taps. 

Candle safety — Place candles in sturdy holders, keep them away from flammable materials, and never leave them unattended. 

Electrical appliances — Make sure cords from kettles, irons, and other appliances are out of children's reach, and always unplug them when not in use. 

Fireplaces and heaters — Use fire guards around open flames and heaters. Ensure heaters are placed away from curtains, furniture, or any other flammable materials. 

Hair styling tools — Always unplug hair straighteners or curling irons after use, and store them safely while they cool down to avoid burns, particularly in homes with children. 

The videos below produced by our colleagues at South West Burns Network relate to hot water bottle safety and preventing burns for over 65 year olds.

Each year, during the second or third week of October, , we raise awareness as part of National Burns Awareness Day. We aim to share important tips on how to stay safe and reducing the risk of a burn or scald injury.

This event is a joint initiative effort led the British Burns Association and the Children’s Burns Trust and supported by Burns Services across the country!

If you're visiting the hospital around this time, keep an eye out for activities and ways for families to get involved and learn together!