Burns include scalds from hot liquids, contact burns from hot
objects (such as an iron), burns caused by flames, chemical and
electrical burns.
Most burns are accidental. It is estimated that of the children admitted
to burns units, 10-14 per cent sustain burns that are the result of abuse.
Burns due to neglect outnumber intentional burns by a ratio of nine to one.
If a doctor suspects that a child has sustained a significant burn they
should always seek the attention of a burns specialist.