The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Skin is also one of the most important organs because it protects the remainder of the bodies' organs from infection and other causes of illness and death. Any injury to the skin, even a minor burn will affect its ability to maintain body temperature and prevent bacteria from causing infection. People cannot survive without skin. Once you have burned yourself you will never ever look the same. Depending on the depth of your burn your skin will not function normally, it won't sweat; it won't have hair in it, permanently and forever.

Nationally, approximately 83,000 children under the age of 14 are treated for burn injuries each year. Scald burns are one of the highest burn injuries reported. Young children, older adults and people with disabilities are the most likely to incur such injuries. Most scald burn injuries happen in the home, primarily in the kitchen or eating areas and from hot tap water in bathtubs or showers. Scalds can be prevented through increased awareness of scald hazards and by making simple environmental or behavioral changes. To prevent scald and burn injuries follow these simple suggestions.

• Create a "kid-safe" zone while preparing and serving hot foods and beverages.
• Lower the water heater thermostat to deliver water at a temperature not to exceed 120 degrees.
• Clearly mark all hot water faucets.
• Do not leave water running in a tub unsupervised.
• Do not allow children under the age of seven to use a microwave unsupervised.
• Use back burners on the stove when possible and turn pot handles inward.
• Keep crock pots and deep fryers away from the counter edges. Do not let cords hang over counter edge.
• Install working smoke alarms and check batteries monthly.
• Plan and practice your family's fire escape plan.