Purpose: This study aimed to establish if common international paediatric burn demographics were also true for Jamaican children and to propose preventive measures for paediatric burns in Jamaica, based on the collation and analysis of data at one paediatric surgery referral centre.

Methods: Children presenting with burns over a four-year period (January 2010 to December 2013) were prospectively followed to discharge and their demographics and clinical details collated in an effort to establish preventive guidelines.

 

Results: There were 52 children ranging in age from one month to 11 years. Common international burn demographics were evident locally. Local practices such as: burning household garbage and leaving children unsupervised at home with lit candles in homes with no electricity, were major risk factors linked to paediatric burns and burnt deaths.

 

Conclusion: The most vulnerable of children-toddlers age two years and under were most at risk of burn injuries sustained at home from preventable causes. Local preventive measures must focus on parental education on home safety, supervision of older children; particularly older boys at play and their education on the dangers associated with playing with fire.