Hot ash burns in the children of Western Australia: How and why they happen

Abstract

IntroductionBurns from hot ash are common in the paediatric population in Western Australia. Fifty children were admitted to the paediatric burn centre with hot ash contact burns to the feet in 2011 and 2012. It is important to examine the extent of the problem, seasonal variations, and identify those at risk to determine strategies for prevention campaigns. MethodRetrospective review of medical notes for all admissions to the paediatric burns unit was undertaken for 2011 and 2012. Data were collected for patient demographics, time, circumstance of injury, burn severity and treatment. ResultsHot ash burns accounted for 8.6% of admissions but 16.1% of burns sustained in non-metro areas. Median age was just under 3 years, male or female. Median burn TBSA was 2%, and 44% of children required surgery. The burns were less common in summer, more common on non-school days and in children who were on camping trips away from home. DiscussionPrevious work has shown the value of targeted campaigns. The group for targeted prevention campaigns are the carers of very young children who go camping. Information distributed at camping shows and stores about the principles of campfire safety would reach the people at risk.