Abuse may have been a factor in the burn incident if treatment is delayed for no apparent reason, if the description of the injury does not match the child's age and developmental characteristics, or if the child shows certain behavioral characteristics. Burns may be of either partial or full thickness. Wet burns, which result from scalding with liquid, are the most common accidental injury to children. Accidental scaldings leave physical marks that differ considerably from those resulting from deliberate immersion. Contact burns are also known as dry burns and may be caused by irons, other household devices, or cigarettes. Investigators of burnings must consider the physical signs, the child's size, and the report given by the caretaker. The investigation should include photographing the scene, the victim, the devices, the water heater, or other objects that may have an important role. 20 footnotes.