[Modes of occurrence of accidental scalds and burns in infancy and childhood (author's transl)].
The modes of occurrence of scalds and burns of varying severity in infancy and childhood were statistically compiled from the case notes of 790 patients admitted to the Department of Paediatrics, University of Graz during the years 1968 to 1973. The most frequent mode of injury was pulling down pots containing hot fluids from stoves and other elevated places (37% cases); 26% of the children were scalded by tripping over pots placed on the floor by adults and falling into the spilt liquid, 11% received burns by touching hot objects or by direct contact with fire and 9% were burned accidentally in a "passive" manner by their siblings or parents. In 18% of cases the accidents happened in a variety of more unusual ways. The age of the injured child and the time of day of the event both appear to play an important role in the genesis of the accident, whereas the season of the year and social status seem to be of minor importance in this connexion. The most important preventive measure is the adequate instruction of parents and others in charge of young children in respect to the common domestic hazards in everyday life which may lead to scalds and burns.