Precautions on preventing children from getting burned

This is according to René Grobler, trauma programme manager at Netcare Milpark Hospital, a state-of-the-art burns unit.

Shack and house fires caused by candles or paraffin lamps left unattended and primus stove explosions, especially in rural area and informal settlements, are unfortunately also commonplace in the country.

Simple interventions, such as making a safe candle holder by using an empty two litre cooldrink bottle or glass jar, standing it in a tray of sand so that the flame will be contained and extinguished by the sand if the candle falls over, are needed in order to prevent injuries and even deaths.

The first and most important step to take is to identify the type of burn, as it will determine the action required.

First-degree burns are the least serious as only the outer layer of the skin is impacted.

The skin is red, swollen and painful, it usually heals with little or no scarring.

Second-degree burns are when the first and second layers of skin have been burned.

Blisters may develop and the skin takes on an intensely reddened, splotchy appearance.

These burns produce severe pain and swelling.

Third-degree burns are the most serious, as all three layers of skin are burned, which causes permanent tissue damage, and destroys hair follicles, blood vessels and nerve endings.

What to do and what not to do in the event of a burn

n When burned, get away from the heat source.

n When clothes have caught fire, stop, drop to the ground and roll to try and smother the flames.

n Be careful of using a synthetic blanket or rug to try and extinguish the flames, they are flammable.

n Cool the burned area under cold water for up to 20 minutes.

n Don’t put ice on the burn, this can cause hypothermia and a drop in body temperature.

n Use a burn care product.

n Apply sterile gauze to the burn but don’t peel away the skin.

Best strategies for prevention

n Take care around candle, paraffin lamps, irons, kettles, stoves, ovens and open fires and don’t leave any of these items unattended.

n Keep a close eye on children in the kitchen and around open fires.

n Be careful when drinking or carrying hot drinks, water or food in order to prevent spills.

n Check the water temperature before babies and children get into the bath.

n Check that all electrical outlets are in proper working order and make sure that they are all child-safe.

n Use safety covers for plug points to prevent toddlers and children from sticking their fingers into it.

n Make sure your home has a fire extinguisher and you know how to use it properly.

n Installing smoke alarms will alert you to potential danger.

n Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.