Aim: Deaths resulted from burn injuries constitute a serious public
health problem in developing countries. Deaths from burn injuries are
usually seen secondary to accidents and more frequently occur in
chidhood. In this study; we intended to indicate the features of
childhood deaths resulted from burn injuries and the causes of burns in
Diyarbakir city. Methods: The corpse examination and autopsy records
of childhood deaths caused by burn injuries between 2003 and 2006 in
the city center of Diyarbakir were scrutinized. It was determined that,
during this period 49 deaths were caused by burn injuries. Results:
It was also determined that 61.22 % of the cases were male and 91.84 %
of them were at pre-school age period (0-6 years). Origins of all
incidents were accident and 75.51 % of accidents were resulted from
scald burns. Forty of incidents were treated in a certain period and
died during treatment. Conclusion: During pre-school period, children
spend most of their times at home, which might increase the frequency
of burn injuries at this age. Since these kinds of accidents are
generally preventable, implemented health and social policies will help
to reduce home accidents
