AS BONFIRE Night approaches, the excitement of fireworks, sparklers, and bonfires fills the air, but so does the risk of burn-related injuries, especially among children.
Burns and scalds are among the most common injuries during this season and knowing how to handle them quickly and effectively can make a big difference.
Burns occur when the skin comes into direct contact with heat sources like flames, hot surfaces, or heated objects, while scalds result from hot liquids or steam. Burns are classified into three degrees of severity. First-degree burns affect only the skin’s outer layer, while second-degree burns penetrate deeper and often cause painful blistering. Third-degree burns damage all layers of the skin and underlying tissue, usually requiring more advanced medical attention. Quick response is vital, especially for second and third-degree burns, to limit damage and avoid complications.
The first and most critical step when dealing with any burn is to cool the affected area as quickly as possible. Running cool or lukewarm water over the burn for at least 20 minutes helps to lower the skin temperature, which limits further damage and provides immediate pain relief. It is important to avoid using ice as it can cause additional tissue damage. If water isn’t immediately available, applying a cold, damp cloth can provide some temporary relief until water can be used.
Once the burn has been cooled, it’s necessary to remove any clothing or jewellery around the affected area, as these items can trap heat and make the injury worse. However, if clothing is stuck to the skin, avoid trying to remove it, as doing so could cause further injury. In such cases, medical assistance is essential to handle the situation safely. The goal is to remove anything that might aggravate the burn, as exposed skin needs to breathe and start healing.
After cooling the burn and removing any loose items, covering the area with a clean, non-stick dressing or cling film can help protect it from infection. This covering keeps the injury moist and shields it from dirt and bacteria until medical help is available. If you don’t have a medical dressing on hand, using a clean, non-fluffy material as a temporary cover is a good alternative. Covering the burn helps to prevent irritation, which is crucial for initial recovery.
In severe cases, seeking medical attention is critical. Burns larger than the size of the individual’s hand or burns affecting sensitive areas such as the face, hands, feet, or genitals should be assessed by a healthcare professional. While minor burns can be treated at home, burns that result in charring, blistering, or appear white indicate significant damage and require professional care to avoid complications.
While knowing how to treat burns and scalds is important, prevention is the best approach. During Bonfire Night, keep children at a safe distance from fireworks and bonfires, and ensure that sparklers are handled only by adults or with close adult supervision. Follow all safety instructions for fireworks and set them off at a distance from people, buildings, and any flammable materials. Having a bucket of water or a hose nearby is a simple but effective precaution to handle small fires or accidental burns. Additionally, be mindful of loose clothing or scarves near open flames as these can easily catch fire.
Sparklers, often underestimated in terms of risk, can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees centigrade. Children should wear gloves when handling them and used sparklers should be safely disposed of in a bucket of water or sand after they burn out. Another essential precaution is to purchase fireworks only from reputable, licensed vendors to reduce the risk of malfunctions or accidents.
It is also important to avoid certain common home remedies for burns. Creams, ointments, butter and even toothpaste should not be applied to burns as they can trap heat and worsen the injury. Additionally, do not pop any blisters that form as this can lead to infection, which may further complicate the injury. Instead, stick to proven first-aid treatments for burns and seek medical advice as needed.
With awareness and preparation, Bonfire Night can be a safe and enjoyable event for everyone. By taking these precautions and knowing how to respond quickly to burns and scalds, you can prevent injuries and ensure that the festivities remain memorable for all the right reasons.
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