Families For Life | Scalds Prevention in Your Home-Young Children

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Children aged four to six are becoming more independent and may want to help in the kitchen or prepare simple snacks. While this is an important learning stage, they still need guidance around hot food, drinks and appliances.

Scalds can happen quickly and may result in serious injuries.

Understanding Hot Water Safety

Teach your child that hot water from taps, kettles and appliances can cause burns.

During bath time:

• Check the water temperature before getting in.

• Ask an adult for help if the water feels too warm.

• Avoid turning hot-water taps on by themselves.

Simple safety habits learned at this age can last a lifetime.

Safe Behaviour in the Kitchen

The kitchen can be a great place for learning, but children should understand kitchen safety rules.

Teach your child to:

• Stay away from the stove while cooking is taking place.

• Avoid touching pots, pans and kettles.

• Walk carefully when carrying food or drinks.

• Inform an adult immediately if something hot spills.

If your child helps with food preparation, provide age-appropriate tasks such as washing vegetables or arranging ingredients.

Hot Food and Drinks

Many scald injuries occur at the dining table.

Encourage your child to:

• Sit while eating and drinking.

• Avoid running when carrying food.

• Wait for hot meals to cool before eating.

• Use both hands when holding a bowl or cup.

Parents should continue checking the temperature of soups, noodles and other hot dishes before serving.

Building Lifelong Safety Habits

As children grow older, they can take more responsibility for their own safety. By teaching them about hot water, food and household appliances, you can help them make safer choices and reduce the risk of burns and scalds at home.

Regular reminders and adult supervision remain important, especially in busy family environments and during meal preparation times.