Tips for treating and preventing burns for children and families

Article written by Doctor Nguyen Thuy Dung - Pediatric Center - Vinmec Times City International Hospital

There are many different causes of serious burns in children, including sunburn, burns of hot water or other liquids, burns from fire, and electrical or chemical exposure. These types of burns can cause permanent damage or scarring to the skin.

Soak the burn in cool water as quickly as possible or let cool water run over the burn. Do not apply ice when burned. Do not rub the burn as it may increase blistering. Cool burning clothing immediately by soaking in water, then remove clothing from burned area unless clothing is firmly adhered to skin. In this case, cut off as many clothes as possible. If the injured area is not draining, cover the burn with a sterile gauze pad or a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply grease or powder to the burn.

3rd degree burns. Burns over 10% of body area. Burns involving the face, hands, feet, genitals or involving movable joints. Young children, fussy a lot, difficult to monitor and treat at home.

Install smoke detectors in the hallway outside the bedroom, kitchen, living room. Check equipment monthly. It is best to use a device with a long-life battery, or to change the battery every year. Practice home fire drills, making sure family members and caregivers know how to safely leave the home in the event of a fire. Have some fire extinguishers on hand and get familiar with how to use them. Place fire extinguishers around the place where the risk of fire is highest: stove, fireplace. Teach your child how to crawl to the exit if there is smoke in the room. Avoid smoking in the house. Do not leave cooking food on the stove unattended. Lock flammable liquids indoors, out of reach of children, away from sources of heat or ignition. Do not plug electrical equipment into an extension cord. Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.