National Burn Awareness Week Focuses on Child Safety

National Burn Awareness Week, led by the American Burn Association, highlights important safety measures to prevent burn injuries, particularly for children who are at increased risk from scalds in kitchens. Safety campaigns across the U.S., including in Idaho, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Oregon, emphasize the importance of safe cooking practices, the use of smoke alarms, and having a home fire escape plan. In Idaho, the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center reports an increase in pediatric scald injuries, often from microwaved liquids. The 'Stay Low and Go' strategy is advised during house fires to avoid smoke inhalation, which can be more dangerous than the fire itself. Tips from various fire departments include testing smoke alarms monthly, setting water heaters below 120 degrees, and creating a 'kid-free zone' around hot appliances. The Oregon Burn Center cautions against indoor use of outdoor heaters to prevent fires and carbon monoxide poisoning during winter.