Burn Prevention

Burns
There are approximately 400,000 fire and burn injuries reported in the United States each year. Young children and persons with mobility impairments are the most frequent victims. Fires and burns remain the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among U.S. children ages 14 and under.

Serious burns are most often caused by heat, electricity, or chemicals. Other types of burns include radiation burns (usually from sun exposure) and friction burns. Prevent burn injuries to your child by identifying dangers in your home and removing them or blocking your child's access to them.

Home Safety Measures

  • Do not smoke in bed.
  • Place smoke alarms and other fire safety devices in strategic locations in your home, such as in the kitchen and bedrooms and near fireplaces or stoves.
  • Smoke detectors need to be checked and to have the batteries replaced regularly. A good way to remember to do this is to check smoke detectors twice a year when daylight savings and standard time change.
  • Make a fire escape plan and make sure the family knows it.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher near the kitchen and have it checked yearly.
  • Use proper fuses in electrical boxes, do not overload outlets, and use insulated and grounded electrical cords.
  • Be careful with any flammable substances used to start fires, such as lighter fluid.