Between 1990 and 2006, overall numbers of burn injuries among children dropped by 31%, according to a study published in the November issue of the journal Pediatrics. Yet while that decrease is cause for celebration—for parents and pediatricians alike—authors of the large scale study, which analyzed some two million burn injuries that resulted in emergency room visits during the 17-year period, point out that burn injuries are still disproportionately high among younger children…

To reduce the risk of burn injuries, Mayo Clinic researchers suggest checking flammability standards on kids' clothes and bedding, and offer other simple tips for parents, including the importance of storing the iron—and hair straightener, curling iron, etc.—unplugged, making sure to check how hot seat belt and car seat buckles are before placing a child in that seat, and of course, keeping matches and lighters stored safely out of reach.

Time by Tiffany Sharples, 10/5/09

Tags: burn injuries, Pediatrics