Matt Swartz, Fire fighter for the Williamsport Bureau of Fire

Did you know, approximately 450,000 burn injuries require medical treatment each year?

To prevent burns and scalds:
• Place objects so that they cannot be pulled down or knocked over.
• Turn pot handles away from the stove’s edge
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove.
• Teach children that hot things can burn. Install anti-scald devices on tub faucets and shower heads.
• Test the water at the faucet. It should be less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Never hold a child while you are cooking, drinking a hot liquid or carrying hot food or liquids.

General first aid for burns and scalds:
• Treat a burn right away by putting it in cool water. Cool the burn for three to five minutes.
• Cover burns with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply creams, ointments, sprays or other home remedies.
• Remove all clothing, diapers, jewelry and metal from the burned area. These can hide underlying burns and retain heat, which can increase skin damage.

This message is brought to you by Safe Kids PA, Lycoming County Partner and the Lycoming County Health Improvement Coalition.