about minor burns
Minor burns can be caused by direct heat or by hot liquids or steam (scalds).
They are an all too common occurrence in the home and many are caused by doing everyday tasks and chores such as cooking and ironing.
Burns can be classified as follows:
Minor Burns
A burn is classified as minor when it is smaller than a postage stamp and the skin remains unbroken. Minor burns can be very painful - the affected area is typically red in colour and feels hot to touch.
Major Burns
A major burn injury is when skin is damaged by a large amount of heat or prolonged amount of heat. It could include someone whose clothing has caught on fire and the skin is very damaged ranging from red-black in colour, the skin may also be cracked or blistered and weeping. There can be nerve damage so the victim may not be able to feel the burnt area.
preventing minor burns in the home
Most of us feel safe at home but more accidents happen in the home environment then anywhere else.
Minor burns are particularly common but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk.
The following prevention tips can help you avoid burns accidents:
- Use a comb to protect from close contact with hair appliances
- After ironing put the iron on a secure surface to cool down
- Use long oven gloves when taking things out of the oven
- Turn pan handles away from the front of the cooker
- Keep hot drinks away from small children