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According to the CPSC, how long in 150 degree water can cause a third-degree burn in most adults?

About two seconds.

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  1. Two seconds ✔
  2. Thirty seconds
  3. Five minutes

Why: Very hot tap water injures skin fast. The CPSC says most adults get a third-degree burn from 150 degree water in two seconds, which is why the thermostat should not be set high.

Huh, didn't know that: The CPSC says even 120 degree water can cause a third-degree burn after about five minutes, so always hand-test the water before bathing a child.

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References

Answer: Two seconds. Very hot tap water injures skin fast. The CPSC says most adults get a third-degree burn from 150 degree water in two seconds, which is why the thermostat should not be set high.

  1. CPSC: Avoiding Tap Water Scalds (Pub. 5098) www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5098-Tap-Water-Scalds.pdf
    Most adults will suffer third-degree burns if exposed to 150 degree water for two seconds.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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