Blazing hot surfaces are a danger for catastrophic burn injuries in the urban desert Southwest

Sizzling sidewalks and unshaded playgrounds are a danger for catastrophic burn injuries as air temperatures reach new summer highs in desert cities like Phoenix and Las Vegas. Very young children, older adults and homeless people are especially at risk for contact burns. They can occur in just a few seconds when the skin touches a hot surface reaching up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Last summer saw a dramatic increase in patients hospitalized after being scalded by asphalt, sidewalks and other hot surfaces at burn centers in Phoenix and Las Vegas. Hospitalizations are up this year, as well.