Abstract
Objective: To assess risk factors for paediatric burn injuries in the Czech Republic and to suggest preventive measures. Methods: This study included all children aged 0-16 years hospitalized during 1993-2000 at the Prague Burn Centre and data from the Czech Ministry of Health on national paediatric burn hospitalizations during 1996-2006.
Personal, equipment and environmental risk factors were identified from hospital records. Conclusion: Most burns involved scalds from hot liquids at home: beverages in kitchens and water in bathrooms.
There is a need for passive preventive measures, such as redesigned domestic cooking and eating areas, safer electrical kettles and temperature control devices for bathrooms. Educational programmes should be developed for parents and caregivers.
A national plan for child burn prevention with specific targets would be helpful.