CHARLESTON, S.C. — As summer temperatures soar in the Lowcountry, hospitals are reporting a concerning rise in surface burns, particularly on the bottom of feet caused by hot pavement and sand. With the heat trapping in the surfaces, walking barefoot on these surfaces can quickly lead to 1st and 2nd-degree burns.
Why Sand and Pavement Get So Hot
According to Dr. Mary Hanley, the Medical Director of Wound Vascular and Hyperbaric Medicine at Roper St. Francis, sand can heat up quickly because it has a low specific heat. This means sand doesn’t need to absorb a lot of sunlight for a long period to reach dangerous temperatures. “People make the mistake of walking on hot sand, and next thing they know their feet are burning,” she said. “We’ll have patients come in with 1st and 2nd-degree burns on the soles of their feet.”
Other Hot Surfaces to Watch Out For
In addition to sand and pavement, other popular summer destinations can be just as dangerous:
Playgrounds: Metal and plastic equipment can get dangerously hot, causing burns to children and adults alike.
Pools: Many people walk barefoot around pools, exposing their feet to scalding surfaces like concrete, tiles, or metal.
Safety Tips to Prevent Surface Burns
Joe Debney, the president of Summerville YMCA, shared that they’ve added sunscreen awareness and safe practices into their swim program curriculum. He suggests, “When moving from hot surfaces to grass, make sure you’re wearing shoes, especially on these really hot days.”
Dr. Hanley also recommends diabetic patients, who may have neuropathy and lack normal foot sensation, take extra care to avoid barefoot walking altogether. “Never go barefoot, not even in your own house. Always wear protective footwear and inspect your feet every day to make sure there are no cuts or wounds you don’t feel,” she said.
Experts Emphasize Prevention and Awareness
Charleston County EMS Division Chief Carl Fehr also stresses the importance of common sense in avoiding surface burns and other heat-related illnesses. He advised, “As a parent or caregiver, it’s a good idea to check on children, the elderly, or anyone you’re caring for, especially during the heat, to make sure they’re staying safe, hydrated, and cool.”
As temperatures rise, it’s crucial for everyone, especially children and vulnerable populations, to stay aware of hot surfaces and use protective footwear to avoid painful surface burns. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, residents and visitors can ensure a safer, more enjoyable summer.
