This study has shown that in all experimental conditions the temperature of the various liquids was greater than 60 C
after 10 min of cooling (cappuccino being the only exception – 9 min to 60 C). The authors therefore propose that if a patient is exposed to a ‘common’ scalding agent that has been cooling for 10 min or less then the temperature of that fluid is likely to be greater than 60 C and therefore capable of causing a burn within seconds of exposure. We also suggest that many hot liquids within a household only reach ‘‘safe temperatures’’ (lower than 53 C) after cooling for 15–20 min in a saucepan and 20–30 min in porcelain mugs. With takeaway beverages, cooking oil and kettle water requiring substantially longer times to cool to this temperature