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Prevention

Pediatric Scalds: A Burning Issue

Young children’s skin burns more quickly and deeply than adults'. Hot water, drinks, and kitchen items can cause serious scald burns. Use these simple, practical tips to help keep kids safe.


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Everyday Prevention Tips

  • Set your water heater to no higher than 120°F (48°C) — or just below the medium setting. 

  • Create a “nokid zone” in the kitchen around stoves, ovens, and hot items. 

  • Keep hot drinks away from the table and counter edges. 

  • Use travel mugs with tight-fitting lids for all hot drinks. 

  • Place pots and pans on the back burners with handles turned inward. 

What to Avoid

  • Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub — even for a moment. If you must step away, take the child with you. 

  • Don’t let young children adjust the water temperature or sit near faucet handles. 

  • Avoid placing anything hot on tables or counters where children could pull it down. 

  • Keep appliance cords (like slow cookers, fryers, coffeemakers) out of reach so they can’t be pulled over. 

The Facts

  • The average annual cost of scald injuries: $44 million 

  • Over 136,000 children were treated in emergency rooms for burn injuries in 2011 

  • Around 1,100 children die each year from fires and burns 

The Fix: If a Burn Happens

  1. Cool the burn with cool (not cold) water to stop the burning process. 

  2. Remove clothing or diapers from the injured area. 

  3. Cover with a clean, dry sheet or bandage. 

  4. Seek medical attention. 

Disclaimer and Usage 

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The materials on this page, ameriburn.org/prevention/burn-prevention-fact-sheets/pediatric-scalds-a-burning-issue, are the property of the American Burn Association (ABA) and are protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. These fact sheets may be reproduced, shared, and distributed without charge for non-commercial, educational purposes. Co-branding with your organization's name or logo is permitted; however, the ABA logo may not be removed, altered, or replaced without prior written permission from the American Burn Association.

These materials are provided for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The ABA assumes no responsibility for any injury or damage.