National Burn Awareness Week begins February 2nd and ends February 8th, 2025. This week is presented by the American Burn Association to unite and promote burn prevention and awareness within communities.
2025 Theme and Prevention Tips
The 2025 theme for burn awareness week focuses on reducing burn risks in homes, apartments, and living spaces. The following are a few tips to help reduce burn risks in correspondence with this year’s theme:
General
- Keep cords out of reach
- Do not leave candles unattended
- Check smoke alarms monthly
- And, charge devices and store chemicals according to the manufacturers instructions
Cooking
- Turn pot handles inward
- Keep fire extinguishers nearby (Class K fire extinguishers are recommended for possible kitchen fires)
- Use oven mitts when handling hot items
- Watch boiling liquids and hot pans
- And, use timers when cooking
Bathroom
- Set your water heater below 120 degrees Fahrenheit
- And, check bathwater with a thermometer
Bedrooms
- Extinguish candles prior to sleeping
- Check heating devices for safety
- Keep space heaters, at minimum, 3 feet away from fabrics
- And, avoid heating pads without an auto shut-off feature
First Aid Procedures
In the event a burn does occur, follow these first aid procedures:
- Run the affected area under cool water for at least 10-20 minutes
- Use a cool compress if running water is not available; avoid putting ice or very cold water on the burn
- Cover the burn with a clean, non-stick bandage or cloth; avoid using cotton
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain; avoid using creams or ointments
For more severe burns:
- Keep calm or keep the victim calm; monitor for shock
- Call 911 or emergency services if the burn is large, deep, or involves the face, feet, genitals, or major joints
For second and third degree, inhalation, and chemical burns, seek immediate medical attention.
Resources
Burn Prevention Fact Sheets for topics including, Cooking Safety for All, Cooking Safety for Older Adults, Contact Burns, Non-Fire Cooking Burns, and Pediatric Scalds can be found on the American Burn Associations website. English and Spanish graphics that can be posted to social media can also be found on the American Burn Associations website under “Graphics.”
Conclusion
National Burn Awareness Week serves as a crucial reminder to educate ourselves and others about the risks of burns and the simple steps we can take to prevent them. Whether at home, in the workplace, or in public spaces, burn injuries can be devastating, but many of them are entirely preventable with awareness and caution. By following safety guidelines, taking precautions around heat sources, and spreading knowledge within our communities, we can help reduce the incidence of burns and protect those we care about.