Journal of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
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Scalds caused by domestic hot tap water constitute a significant but preventable hazard in childhood. We have reviewed some of the factors contributing to such injuries, and the experience of a regional paediatric burn unit in their treatment. There were 91 children with bath water scalds and 667 children with thermal injuries from other sources included in this study. ⋯ First aid application made no significant difference to eventual burn area or hospital stay. It appears from this study that reduction of domestic hot water temperature is necessary. Statutory control is likely to offer the best solution to the problem of domestic hot tap water scalds in childhood.