Specialist burns nurses from Queen Victoria Hospital were present at Haskins Snowhill Garden Centre on Wednesday 14th October 2026 to raise awareness of burn risks and provide advice on prevention and first aid. The event coincided with Burns Awareness Day.
The hospital's data indicates that during the first eight months of 2026, the Paediatric Assessment Unit conducted 613 new assessments for burn injuries in children. Scalds were responsible for half of all injuries, with contact burns making up almost a third.
Hot drinks remain the primary cause of burns treated by the service, leading to 132 injuries in the period. Other common causes included everyday household items such as ovens, hobs, hair straighteners, hot water bottles, BBQs, treadmills, and heaters.
Clinicians have also noted a concerning increase in burns caused by instant noodle pots, with these injuries becoming more severe, affecting larger body areas, and requiring longer healing times.
“"The fact that almost half of the children assessed by our Paediatric Assessment Unit for burn injuries are aged two and under highlights just how vulnerable young children are to burns in the home."
“"Our data highlights that many injuries are caused by everyday items that people encounter routinely, from hot drinks and hot food to hair straighteners and treadmills. We are also seeing an increase in burns caused by instant noodle pots, which can result in more extensive injuries and longer healing times."
“"That is why Burns Awareness Day is so important. By helping people understand the risks and the correct first aid response, we hope to reduce both the number and severity of burns affecting children."
During the awareness day, visitors at Haskins received advice on cooling burns under cool running water for 20 minutes, and were cautioned against using ice, butter, creams, or toothpaste on injuries. The hospital thanked Haskins Snowhill Garden Centre for their support in raising awareness within the local community and for their ongoing support of the Queen Victoria Hospital Charity.
