“Just be careful,” Woodger cautions. “Just touch it (the water) before you spray, before you let your kids near it.”
So, what should you do IF you suspect your child has a hot water burn, from the hose, or ANY source? KidsHealth.org has some tips for parents. For second and third degree burns, they are:
- Remove child from heat source
- Call medical help (911) immediately
- Remove clothing from the burned area (If you’re having difficulty removing clothing, you may need to cut it off or wait until medical assistance arrives. Do not pull it off if it is stuck to the skin.)
- Keep your child lying down with the burned area elevated.
- Apply cool water over the area for at least 3-5 minutes, then cover the area with a clean dry cloth or sheet until help arrives.
- DO NOT apply butter, grease, or any other remedies to the burn as this could make things worse and cause infection
- DO NOT break any blisters while waiting for help to arrive
For less threatening first-degree burns, read KidsHealth.org’s tips here.
Summer is ALL about fun, but with [outdoor] and water play involved, there are always a few summer safety issues to consider. Having never given garden hose hot water burns a second thought, I am so glad I happened to see the Las Vegas fire department’s tweet and was able to investigate further. So, think before you turn on that hose — and tell your older kids to be aware, too. A drink from the water hose could be dangerous if you don’t make sure the water coming out is cool.
Have a safe and happy summer, my friends!
