With public schools across Alaska closing for the remaining portion of the 2019-2020 school year, child burn injuries are an increasing concern. The most common burn injury for children involves scalding hot water but another major concern is electrical burns. It is up to parents to be educated and alert to protect children from all types of burn injuries.
Electrical Injuries From Cords
A common issue with children using electronics involves cords. Babies or small children may chew on or bite cords not knowing the risks. With enough determination, children can bite completely through a cord and in some instances, electrocute themselves. Teach children from a young age not to chew on cords, including headphone cords or phone chargers.
Additional risks involving cords include frayed cords or exposed wires. Explain to children that if they see a cord fraying, they should tell an adult so repairs or replacements can be made. Bedside lamps and phone or game chargers are a common concern and can cause a fire or electrocution if not repaired or replaced.
Finally, cords near a water source are a concern. Children may not be aware that when they blow dry or curl their hair in the bathroom, they should keep cords away from the sink. It is up to parents to teach children about the potential risks of using electronics near a water source. Explain to children that electronic devices should be used away from water to avoid injury.
Electrical Injuries From Outlets
Children may try to put foreign objects, like forks, into electrical outlets not aware they can electrocute themselves or cause a fire. Many households with young children put plastic protectors into electrical outlets but it is important to also teach children about potential risks as they get older. With children staying home from school, they become bored or curious and may cause injury to themselves or others without intending to do so.
Electrical Injuries From Appliances
Appliances are a concern for children of all ages. Young children may reach on the counter and pull appliances onto themselves, like a coffee maker or slow cooker. Appliances are usually heavy and can cause blunt force trauma to a small child. Additionally, appliances in use may cause contact burns. Store appliances in cabinets, either high above children’s reach or low enough that a fall would not be harmful. Push appliances in use to the back of the counter or table to avoid injury.
As children get older, they become more curious and want to use appliances themselves. The range of appliances children ask to use may vary including curling irons, vacuum cleaners, coffee makers, sewing machines and even blenders. Teach children proper use of appliances before allowing them to use appliances themselves. Always supervise children while they are using any kind of electrical device or appliance.
Electrocution
Electrocution occurs when an electrical energy flows through the body and causes a shock. Injuries below the skin, not visible can occur from electrocution as can death, however burns are the most common injury from exposure to an electric current. Those who have experienced electrocution, should seek immediate medical attention to ensure their injuries receive proper treatment.
Parents May Seek Recovery
With schools being closed, many children are staying with family, friends, or neighbors while parents continue working. Having children stay in someone else’s home can be stressful, especially during an already stressful period. Protect your child by ensuring that anyone your child stays with for an extended period is providing a safe environment. In the instance your child is injured while at someone else’s house, ask if that person has homeowners or renter’s insurance. In some cases, these kinds of insurances may help your child.
Children need parents to advocate for them to hold negligent parties responsible for actions causing injuries to children.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: Winchester Hospital, “Electrical Burns and Injuries“
