My GE Electric stove is hot everywhere.?

I have a 10 year old GE electric range (coil type). When I turn the burner on, the entire stove gets hot, meaning, if I accidentally touch the front edge or any other part of the stove, I could get scorched. The only part that does not get hot is where the control knobs are (at the back). This happens even when the over is on and the burner is not. I have a kid and am always worried when he gets closer to the stove while cooking. What could be wrong?