Overview
- Jeremy Yarrow of the NHS Welsh Centre for Burns and Plastic Surgery says winter admissions continue from steam inhalation spills that cause serious injuries.
- Injuries frequently involve the thighs, lower abdomen and genital area, with children at heightened risk due to thinner skin and limited hazard awareness.
- Yarrow advises against steam inhalation for colds or respiratory infections and recommends over‑the‑counter or prescribed treatments instead.
- He outlines a ‘3Cs’ first‑aid protocol for burns: cool with running tap water for 20 minutes, call 999/111 or a GP, and cover loosely with clingfilm or a sterile dressing.
- Morriston clinicians also report rising hot water bottle scalds and urge users to check manufacture dates, replace bottles older than two years, and avoid freshly boiled water.