Its summer time and many states across our nation are recording record hot temperatures. Summer is synonymous with children playing outdoors, often playing in their backyard in kiddie pools and running through water sprinklers. Unfortunately, a seemingly innocuous activity can pose a dangerous health threat to our babies and children. Garden hoses left out baking in the sun can lead to serious burns. The water in garden hoses that are left out in the sun can reach temperatures up to 190 degrees-near boiling temperature. Temperatures this high can cause second or third degree burns.
Measures that you can take to prevent an accident:
- Avoid leaving garden hoses outside.
- Take careful attention to test the water temperature before use.
- When left outside and before use, the water from the garden hose should be drained first.
- Drain the water from the garden hose after each use.
Other potential sources of heat related burns include:
- Walking bare foot on hot pavement.
- Contact with hot metal objects such as the seat buckle of a car.
What to do if your child is burned:
- Remove child immediately from the heat source.
- Apply cool water to the affected area for immediate treatment. Do not use ice or creams as these may damage the skin further.
- Seek immediate medical attention for burns that are larger than the palm of your hand. Also, seek immediate medical attention for burns that appear deep, no matter the size.
In Summary
Summertime should be a fun and great time for families. Be mindful and practice due diligence to keep your children safe when they are playing outdoors.
Watch the news clip below as this Arizona mother describes the horrifying moments when her 9-month old baby was accidentally burned from scalding hot water from a garden hose. Warning! Images are graphic.
