How to avoid hot water bottle burns and scalds
With temperatures dropping and the cost of living rising, many opt to use a hot water bottle to stay cosy. They can be a quick and cost-effective way to warm up, however it’s important to remember that if used incorrectly hot water bottles can result in severe scalds or contact burns.
Hot water bottles have a life of around two years, any older and they can be prone to the rubber degrading and bursting. Look at the year of manufacture, shown in the middle of the daisy wheel on the neck of bottles, and check your bottle for any signs of wear and tear before using.
Follow the steps below to stay safe and reduce the likelihood of any accidents:
When filling…
- Never use boiling water; let the water cool for a few minutes before filling
- Never let a child fill a hot water bottle
- Don’t fill the bottle more than two thirds
- Gently and carefully squeeze air out
- Secure the stopper tightly
When using…
- Always use a cover to protect skin.
- Avoid sitting or lying on the bottle to prevent pressure build up and breakage.
- Don’t use a hot water bottle more than two years old- check the daisy wheel on the neck of the bottle the year of manufacture.
People with certain health conditions should take extra precaution. Those with diabetes should be extra cautious if using hot water bottles, as they may have altered or reduced sensation in their feet. Those living with spina bifida or cerebral palsy should also be careful, due to the potential of reduced sensitivity in their skin.
In the event of a serious burn or scald take the following steps:
- Remove or cut off any clothing covering the burn
- Place the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes, but keep the rest of the person warm
- Call 999 in an emergency
- Cover the burned skin loosely with strips of cling film