Children's Hospital Colorado

Glass-Front Fireplaces Lead to Burns in Toddlers

CBS4 | November 21, 2016

Glass Fireplace

As outdoor temperatures drop during the winter months, burn risks rise and glass-front gas fireplaces are a major reason why.

"We see between 25 and 35 kids each year with hand burns from these glass fireplace doors,” said Dr. Steven Moulton, Burn Center Medical Director and trauma surgeon at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Dr. Moulton's team has seen a 50% increase in the hand burns since 2006.

Why are toddlers more at risk?

These injuries typically involve a toddler toppling into or touching the glass front. And because toddlers lack the coordination and response time to quickly move away from the glass, they sustain more severe burns.

Watch the full story on CBS4 for practical tips on keeping kids safe around fireplaces.