Burns are caused by exposure to excessive heat, for example the sun (UV radiation), tanning beds, hot liquids, flames, electricity, some chemicals, radiation therapy.
Although adults are more likely to be burned by open flames, scalds from hot liquids are a particular hazard for children and older adults.
Injuries that involve a combination of an abrasion and heat cause friction burns. The injuries experienced by cyclists and motorcyclists that are commonly referred to as ‘road rash’ are an example of this.