The cooler months of the year may be a nice change to the soaring temperatures of summer, however, winter has its own kind of heat. According to the Burns Registry of Australia and New Zealand (BRANZ), 65% of burn injuries each year happen in the home, with an increase of incidents during the winter months.
Burn’s can be avoided with due care and precaution, however, the most common causes include:
- Heaters – whether you use a gas, wood or electric heater it is important to ensure it is functioning properly and that children are kept away from the device by using protective barriers
- Kitchen (Cooking) – always ensure that pot handles are facing the back of the cooktop and that children are supervised at all times when in the kitchen.
- Electric blankets – do a yearly examination of the electric blanket to check for hotspots
- Hot water bottles and Heat packs – Hot water bottles should be filled with warm, not boiling water, and should be covered with a towel during use. They should also be checked for leaks before every use. Heat packs should always be used by following the manufacturer’s directions.
Being winter safe in your home will help protect you, your family and friends.
