A Brisbane family is sharing a heartbreaking warning after their toddler suffered severe burns from a spilled cup of hot coffee. One-year-old Luka was left screaming in agony when the scalding liquid poured over his chest and legs, leaving him with second-degree burns.
His distraught parents, who rushed him to hospital, are now urging other families to be extra cautious with hot drinks around young children.
The Terrifying Incident
The accident occurred in what seemed like a normal family moment. Luka's mother had placed her coffee cup on a low table, not realising how quickly her curious toddler could reach it. In seconds, the cup tipped over, dousing the little boy in boiling liquid.
"His skin immediately turned red and started blistering," his mother recalled. "The screams were unbearable - I'll never forget that sound."
Emergency Response and Recovery
Paramedics arrived quickly and treated Luka before transporting him to Queensland Children's Hospital. Doctors confirmed second-degree burns across his chest and legs, requiring weeks of painful dressing changes and follow-up care.
The family's medical team emphasised how common such injuries are, with hot drinks being a leading cause of burns in children under five.
Important Safety Advice
Child safety experts recommend these precautions:
- Always use travel mugs with secure lids when children are present
- Never place hot drinks on low tables or surfaces within children's reach
- Consider waiting until children are napping to enjoy hot beverages
- Keep children away from kitchen areas when preparing hot drinks
Luka's parents hope their story will prevent similar accidents. "We thought we were being careful," his father said. "It only takes a second for life to change forever."
