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Protect Yourself Against Fire and Treat
Burns
Know what to do when dealing with fire and burns.
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Fire
Fires in homes are a serious issue. Often fatal fires are the result of not having a working smoke
alarm or carbon monoxide detector. You can prevent fires through simple steps. Make sure you
have a properly working smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm, change the batteries at
least once a year. Plan and practice a family escape route. Learn how to use your fire
extinguisher and remember if your clothes catch on fire to: Stop, Drop and Roll.
If you are evacuating a burning building don't go through doors whose handles are hot. Leave
your house, call for help. Do not go back to help someone else.
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Burns
Burns are a common injury whether it be from a household cleaning product or the sun. How
severe a burn is varies by degrees. There are three types of burns: first degree, second degree,
and third degree burns. If you don't know how severe your burn is call 911 or seek medical
treatment. The following are the most common causes of burns:
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Scalds
Fire
Chemicals
Electricity
Sun
Preventing Burns
You can prevent burns using simple safety steps such as using pot holders when handling hot
pots and pans also be careful when frying foods. Keep chemicals out of the reach of children and
unplug household appliances when not in use. Make sure your electrical sockets are covered and
keep kids away from the stove or fireplace.
When trying to beat the heat or spending a day in the sun, make sure to use and reapply
sunscreen. It's best to prevent direct exposure to sun when possible.
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Treating Burns
If you or a loved one gets a burn, follow these steps.
For minor burns you should use a cool compress, cover the burn with a non-stick dressing and
take over-the-counter pain reliever. For major burns you should call 911, make sure the victim is
not in contact with the burn source, and check for responsiveness and breathing. If the victim is
not breathing begin CPR.