Burns are injuries caused from exposure to direct fire, excessive heat, or heat producing agent. It affects the body which causes pain and when severe, requires surgery and therapy. Rehabilitation from the injury takes a long period of time depending on parts being affected. Severe burns leave permanent scars.
Tips to Prevent Burn Injury
- 1) Cook carefully. Cooking is the primary cause of residential fires.
- a) Never leave food unattended on a stove.
- b) Keep pot handles turned inwards.
- c) Keep cooking areas free of flammable objects, like cloth and paper.
When cooking, wear clothes that fit properly and do not have long, loose-fitting sleeves.
- d) Use caution when removing any products such as drinks, and noodles from microwaves.
- 2) Quit smoking! Smoking is the leading cause of fire related deaths.
- a) Never smoke in bed or leave burning cigarettes unattended.
- b) Do not empty smoldering ashes in a trash can.
- c) Keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
- 3) Use of smoke detectors.
- a) Install smoke alarms on all levels in the home and near rooms where people sleep.
- b) Use long life smoke alarms with lithium batteries if these are not available, use regular alarms and replace the batteries regularly.
- c) Test all smoke alarms monthly to see that they function.
- 4) For households with young children.
- a) Don’t leave containers of hot liquids or food near the table edges.
- b) Don’t carry or eat hot liquids or food while holding a child.
- c) Always test food temperature before serving.
- d) Always test the temperature of the hot water before placing a child in a tub to bathe.
- e) Supervise children in the kitchen; keep matches, lighters, gasoline, and other flammable materials out of children’s reach.
- f) Don’t leave burning candles within the reach of young children.
- g) Keep appliance cords out of children’s reach; cover unused electrical outlets with safety devices.
First Aid for Burns
- If on fire
- 1. Stop, drop, cover face and roll.
- 2. Smother flames with a blanket.
- 3. Move away from heat source.
- Remove clothing and jewelry
- 1. Clothing can hold heat on the burnt area.
- 2. If swelling occurs jewelry can stop blood flow to the burnt area
- Apply cold running water for at least 20 minutes. If running water is not available, wet 2 cloths and alternate them onto burnt area.
- Seek medical attention.
By: Ms. Plinky Jeunesse T. Roxas | Nurse | Limay National High School | Limay, Orion Bataan