A horrific playground accident left a four-year-old boy with second-degree burns after he sat on a blisteringly hot metal slide in Westminster. The incident occurred during last week's heatwave when temperatures soared above 30°C.
Traumatic Incident in Broad Daylight
The child's mother, who wished to remain anonymous, described the terrifying moment: "He screamed like I've never heard before. When I pulled down his shorts, his skin was bright red and already blistering." Paramedics rushed the boy to a nearby hospital where he received emergency treatment for severe burns to his thighs and buttocks.
Doctors Issue Heatwave Warning
Dr. Sarah Chen from St. Mary's Hospital Burn Unit told us: "Metal playground equipment can reach 60-70°C in direct sunlight - hot enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds. We see several cases like this every summer." Medical experts recommend testing equipment with the back of your hand before letting children play.
Playground Safety Checklist
- Check metal surfaces before use
- Avoid playgrounds during peak heat hours (11am-3pm)
- Dress children in protective clothing
- Choose shaded play areas when possible
- Bring cold water to cool overheated equipment
The local council has since installed warning signs at the playground and is considering replacing metal components with heat-resistant materials. Meanwhile, the brave little boy faces weeks of painful recovery and skin grafts.
