Hot tap water is a common cause of burns, and it can happen to anyone. Children and the elderly are especially vulnerable.

As a responsible homeowner or renter, it is your duty to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from hot tap water burns.

Set your water heater temperature to a safe level

One of the first things you should do is set your water heater temperature to a safe level. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the temperature setting on your water heater should not be above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

If your water heater is set at a higher temperature, it can increase the risk of burns.

It’s important to note that setting your water heater to a lower temperature can save you money on your energy bills and also help prevent scalding burns.

Test the water temperature before use

You should always test the water temperature before using it. This is especially true if you have young children or elderly people in your home. To test the water temperature, turn on the faucet and let the water run for a few seconds.

Then, put your hand under the water to check the temperature. If the water feels too hot, adjust the faucet until you get a comfortable temperature.

Install anti-scald devices

Another step you can take to protect yourself and your family from hot tap water burns is to install anti-scald devices. These devices are designed to regulate the water temperature and prevent it from getting too hot.

There are several types of anti-scald devices on the market, including thermostatic mixing valves and pressure-balancing valves. It’s important to choose the right type of device for your needs and have it installed by a licensed plumber.

Teach children about hot water safety

If you have children in your home, it’s important to teach them about hot water safety. Teach them not to touch the hot water faucet and to ask for help when they need to use hot water.

Also, teach them to test the water temperature before getting into the bathtub or shower.

Don’t leave children unattended in the bathroom

It’s important not to leave young children unattended in the bathroom, especially in the bathtub or shower. Accidents can happen quickly, and you want to be there to prevent them from happening.

Always supervise children when they are using hot water.

Keep hot water away from the floor

Hot water can quickly seep through floors and cause burns. It’s important to keep hot water away from the floor by using bath mats or slip-resistant tiles in the bathroom.

Also, make sure there are no leaks from the faucet or pipes that could cause hot water to spill onto the floor.

Wear protective gear when working with hot water

If you work with hot water on a regular basis, it’s important to wear protective gear such as gloves, aprons, and goggles. This includes professions such as cooks, cleaners, and hairdressers who may be exposed to hot water on a daily basis.

Know how to treat a burn

Despite taking all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. It’s important to know how to treat a burn if it does occur. The first step is to run cool water over the burn for at least 10 minutes.

Don’t use ice, as it can damage the skin. Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth or bandage. If the burn is severe, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Hot tap water burns are a serious problem that can cause lifelong injuries.

By taking the necessary precautions and educating yourself and your family about hot water safety, you can prevent these accidents from happening and keep yourself and your loved ones safe.