National Burn Awareness Week 2016
In 2015, nearly 500,000 people in the United States received medical treatment for burn-related injuries. Of those, 40,000 required hospitalization for further treatment. In the same year, there were over 3,200 deaths from fire and smoke inhalation. [1]
According to the ABA’s AmeriBurn website, over 70% of the injuries mentioned above occurred in the home. [2] This week, it’s the right time for everyone to take a few minutes to review important safety tips to lower the risk of burn injuries at home.
Dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by burn injuries, the American Burn Association (ABA) is one of a few key organizations that promote fire safety awareness and education throughout the United States. The National Burn Awareness campaign kicks off in February.
Scald Burns
Scald burns caused by hot liquids or vapor are the leading cause of non-fire burns. For this reason, we recommend that you review the following tips with your friends and family, and especially those with young children.
Burn Safety Tips
In the kitchen…
- Keep sleeves and jewelry away from cooking area.
- Use back burners and always leave pot handles away from you.
- Never leave the stove on unattended.
- Never put water on a grease or oil fire.
- Keep hot dishes, soups, and liquids away from young children at the table.
- Replace tablecloths with placemats to avoid children pulling the tablecloth and spilling food.
- Allow foods to cool before serving.
Working with water…
- Always test the water before entering a bath or shower, especially with children.
- Set the water heater to 120° F or less
And with children…
- Keep all electric cords out of reach.
- Ensure safety outlets are covered with appropriate caps.
- Always keep matches and lighters away.
- Monitor time in the sun and use sun protection gear and sunscreen
- Avoid drinking hot liquid when holding children.
- Determine areas that are NOT safe for children to play and make clear rules.
- Children should stay away from cooking areas.
- Children should avoid playing near fireplaces, heaters, grills, campfires, and any open flames.
Finally…
- Turn off hot irons and curling irons when finished. Do not leave them unattended.
- Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
If someone is burned, follow these instructions recommended by ABA[3]:
- If clothes catch fire, STOP, DROP & ROLL!
- For minor burns, use COOL WATER only! AVOID ice, butter, creams, or ointments.
- For severe burns, call 9-1-1 immediately! Put out any fire on the person but leave burnt clothing intact.
If you found this post helpful, please pass it along to friends and family.
Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.
[1] http://www.ameriburn.org/resources_factsheet.php