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Avoid Scalding 

Every year thousands of people are scalded by overheated tap water. When is hot water too hot? At 120 F, 130 F, 140 F? At 130 F, serious burns occur in 30 seconds. At 140 F, it takes only five seconds. And, for the elderly and small children it happens in half the time. 

To prevent injuries, water heaters should be set between 120 F and 125 F, and, for children, bath water should be no more than 100 F. It’s a good practice to run some cold water first, then add hot water — testing it with your hand. 

Here’s how to test your water temperature: Run hot water until you’re sure it’s reached its peak, then fill a glass and use a thermometer. First fill and empty the glass a time or two to warm it so it will not cool down the tap water. Then adjust your water-heater thermostat as needed. Whenever you make a change wait 24 hours before again testing the temperature. 

– James and Morris Carey