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Abstract: Purpose of study: Burns are one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths in Iran. We conducted a study to investigate features of burns in rural areas of Ardabil Province from October 2004 through March 2005, with an aim to providing content for effective prevention programs. Basic procedures: This study employed longitudinal prospective methodology. The study population included all patients presenting with burns to local health care facilities during the study period. Main findings: A total of 1179 cases were studied. Most of the cases (59.4%) were females. Mean of age of victims was 22.3±19 years in females and 13.6±17 years in males. The vast majority (91.2%) of burns occurred at home. More than two-thirds of burns were because of hot liquids or steam. The majority of scald burns resulted during use of heating devices such as samovars, gas stoves, valors and picnic gas stoves. Overturning and spilling of hot liquids were the most common injury mechanisms. Principle conclusions: Prevention programs should focus on children and adult women. Prevention efforts should target home environments and focus on prevention of scalding burns. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]