"Playing with fire" is an expression that indicates that something dangerous is being done, which can cause us harm. But literally playing with fire is something that some do children, the age group that is at a higher risk of burns For this reason, when matches, lighters, candles, stoves ...
Burns are one of the leading causes of injury deaths and the risk is found in many places, some unimaginable. I was surprised to know that when they go in pajamas, just when they get up or before going to bed, the danger increases.
This happens because children are more prone to panic and when the pajamas start to burn they are unable to react due to fear, they cannot be safe and out of reach of the flames with the same speed with which an adult would act. Therefore, if a child accidentally burns his clothes, his injuries will be more serious than those of an adult: his reaction time is longer.
In addition to burns, pajamas may involve other risks if they include cords or ties that create a potential strangulation hazard. Badly sewn buttons that can be released may cause the child to choke.
Buy and use safe pajamas
The Spanish Association of Pediatrics establishes the following tips so that pajamas don't spoil children's sleep.
Check that the pajamas comply with European standards, EN 1103: 2005 and EN 14878: 2007, related to textile flammability.
Buy flame retardant pajamas. Flame retardant garments are made of fire resistant materials or have been treated with retarding materials, so they do not continue to burn once separated from a small flame.
Buy pajamas that fit the body, not loose clothing (cotton or mix) as they burn easily. The tight pajamas fit the child's body and are less likely to come into contact with a flame and, even if they do, the flame will not spread as quickly as with a loose garment.
Do not buy pajamas with buttons or laces and long ties to avoid the risk of choking or strangulation.
Supervise children before going to bed and just after getting up, since it is the time when they are most exposed to burn when playing with candles, lighters ... with pajamas on.
Of course, this last recommendation is vital and would go further: never, never, leave matches, lighters, candles within reach of children... nor any of those elements, since they pose a great danger. In a moment a misfortune can happen, at any time of the day, in pajamas, street clothes or in any way.
