Do you know the most common cause of (and age for) burns in infants?

Knowing the most common causes of burns and the most at-risk age groups is vital in preventing burns.

According to the Burns Registry of Australia and New Zealand (BRANZ) Annual Report 2020/21 (looking at all acute burn injuries admitted to Australian and New Zealand burn Services in the 12 months to June 30th 2021), the most common cause of burn injuries amongst paediatric patients was scalds – accounting for a whopping 49% of all burns in paediatric patients.

This was followed by contact (24%), flame (11%), and friction burns (11%).

The age group that reported the most burns injuries was the 13-24m age group with 31.2% of all burns injuries occurring in this age group, over the ages 0-15 years.

The 13-24 month age group also accounted for the highest rate of scalds by far (45.6% of scalds in children aged 0-15 years).

Overall in paediatric cases, hot beverages were the most common sub-cause (19%), followed by food (liquid or solid) (10%).

Kidsafe often states “hot drinks burn like fire” – and it’s true! To prevent scalds there are 2 main things you can do;

Don’t hold your child when having a hot drink
Keep kettles, jugs, mugs and cups out of reach

Prevention is key but knowing the correct first aid is vital. Remember – 20 minutes of cool running water is the most effective treatment for burns and scald injuries. We love this visual from Kidsafe & ANZBA –