BURNS CAUSE HIGH INCIDENCE OF DEATH IN CHILDREN— SAN FRANCISCO BURN INJURY ATTORNEYS (Part 1 of 2)
Burns can be caused by common, everyday duties, such as cooking, lighting the fireplace or even bathing. They can also result in different degrees of burns that require treatment ranging from running the burned area under cold water to visiting an emergency room for proper treatment. Burns are defined as being a first, second or third degree burn. First degree burns are the least serious types of burns in which the most outer layer of skin is burned. The signs are if the skin is red and swollen, but the outer layer has not been burned completely through. Second degree burns occur when the outer layer is burned through and the second layer is burned as well. These burns cause blistering, swelling, pain and redness.
Children can also be easily scalded by bathwater, especially for slightly older children who are able to reach the hot water knob and turn it on their own. Burns result in hospitalization of over 40,000 children each year, and over 1000 deaths. To prevent such injuries in the bath tub, it is recommended that the thermostat on the hot water heater be turned down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, to prevent the possibility altogether.
The Mayo Clinic suggests that for minor burns (first and second degree burns) which are no larger than three inches in diameter, one should cool the burn by holding it under cold water, or immersing it in water for at least five minutes. Then, the burn should be loosely covered with sterile gauze bandage, as it will keep air off the burn and protects the blistered skin. Lastly, an over the counter pain reliever can be used, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. It is not recommended that you use ice, butter, or ointments on the burn.
When an adult, or a child has been severely burned they or their family members should seek legal counsel and learn about their rights. Greenberg & Rudman LLP has experience in representing individuals in burn injuries, among others; call us now at 1-800-252-9776 (1-800-ALAWPRO) for a free consultation. Please visit our website www.alawpro.com to find out more about our law firm. For more information on burn injuries, read Part II of the Blog: INJURED BY A BURN? NORTHERN CALIFORNIA ATTORNEYS CAN HELP.
