Climate change, among other factors, can cause prolonged heat waves, making it challenging to be outdoors. When extreme heat increases, people and animals risk being burned by the pavement, outdoor furniture, car steering wheels and other surfaces. Lack of access to shelter or lack of mobility can create further dangers in extreme heat.
Preventing burns
Check local weather reports for extreme heat warnings. Many everyday objects conduct heat easily when under direct sunlight. This means some items can reach high temperatures capable of causing third-degree burns. On hot days, and especially during severe heat, be cautious when touching the following:
Car upholstery, steering wheels and seat belt buckles. Studies show a car parked in the sun can reach up to 117°F within one hour. Try to park your car in the shade or a garage away from direct sunlight. Keep a towel on your car seat so you, your passengers or your pet can sit comfortably.
Pavement. Never walk barefoot on hot days. Walk pets in the early morning or evening and keep to grassy and shaded areas. It is too hot for your pet if you cannot keep your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. Consider using pet shoes and moisturizing balms for their paws.
Outdoor furniture. Tables and chairs can get as hot as 104 to 136°F in the sun. Place outdoor furniture under an umbrella or in a shaded area. Cushions or towels are useful for creating a barrier between your skin and hot surfaces.
Hose water. Water inside a hose can reach temperatures as hot as 140°F when left sitting in the sun. Be careful when using the watering hose and ensure hot water doesn’t splash on your skin. Check the water before allowing children or pets to play with it or a sprinkler.
Metals. On hot, sunny days, it’s best to avoid touching outdoor handrails and other metals, such as playground structures.
Protecting yourself from other extreme health risks, like heat stroke or sunburn, is vital on a hot day. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and take frequent breaks.
Recognizing burns
Understanding the severity of a burn and whether to seek medical assistance is important. Burn depth is usually known 24 hours after injury since the appearance of a burn can change. Doctors typically categorize burns into three categories:
First degree burns
Lack of blisters
Dry and sensitive skin
Swelling and redness
Mild pain
Can be treated at home
Second degree burns
Blistering
Well-defined edges
Swelling and redness
Glossy look
White or splotchy skin
May require medical attention
Third-degree burns
Numbness
Skin may be black, brown or white
Leathery texture
Requires immediate medical attention
Pets can also be burned, especially on their paws, so it’s essential to watch out for symptoms such as:
Redness or inflammation
Leathery texture and discoloration
Peeling
Singed or curled-up hair
Blisters
Behavioral changes like avoiding being touched, whimpering in pain or limping
If you suspect your pet has been burned, contact a veterinarian immediately.
First aid and medical assistance
Whether you should receive outside medical assistance depends on the burn's size and severity. Do not underestimate how capable hot metal or pavement can be at creating severe burns.
Mild burns. A mild burn can be treated at home. These will be less than three inches in diameter and first-degree or second-degree with slight blistering. Run the burn under cool water or apply a cool cloth for 10 minutes. Apply lotion and bandage the burn. Do not break any blisters to avoid infection. Pain relievers can be taken to relieve discomfort. Keep an eye on the burn to make sure it does not worsen. Seek medical attention if it looks or feels worse or shows signs of infection.
Severe burns. Get medical assistance immediately for more extensive burns and severe second or third-degree burns. Make sure the burn victim is no longer touching the hot surface. If the person is outside, try to get them to a shaded area or cool place. While waiting for help, remove any jewelry or other accessories near the burn since it can swell. Do not attempt to detangle clothing from the burn, as this can irritate. If possible, keep the burned body part above the person’s heart. Cover the burn with a clean cloth or gauze.
