[Burns in childhood - epidemiology and prevention]

An analysis of 230 children treated for burns at the Department oif pediatric Surgery in Berne, Switzerland, shows, that approximately three quarter of the cases were caused by hot liquids. Children below the age of seven are at the highest risk (80% of the patients). Most burns occur either during cooking, during meals or while the children are playing. The vast majority of parents applies no or only inadequate first-aid measures. The resulting prolonged time of exposure to the heat increases the damage to the skin. The most effective way of preventing burns in children consists in eliminating hazards or at least protecting the children from known specific dangers. Because in childhood most burns are self-inflicted all the preventive measures should be independent from an active cooperation or comprehension by the patient.