What are burns and scalds?
A burn is damage to body tissues caused by heat (dry or moist), electricity, friction, or chemicals. A scald is a burn caused by hot water or steam. Burns are classed as first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree, depending on how deep into the body tissues they are. Treatment depends on the extent of the tissue damage rather than on the cause. About two million people in the U.S. each year are burned or scalded badly enough to need medical attention. Most of those who require medical attention are children or older people. Many of these burns occur in the home, and many could be prevented.
