Heat wave boosts burns in Phoenix as pavement, cars scald
PHOENIX — The main burn centre in Phoenix has seen its emergency department visits double during the heat wave that is scorching the Southwest U.S., including people burning their bare feet on the scalding pavement.
Dr. Kevin Foster, director of the Arizona Burn Center, said this June is the worst the centre has seen in 18 years. Most patients arrive with contact burns from touching hot car interiors or walking outside without shoes.
Foster said one child received contact burns after crawling through a doggy door onto the hot pavement.
“Getting up to 120 really makes a difference,” Foster said.