Fire Prevention Week Tips: Monday

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Fire Prevention Week runs from October 4-10 according to a proclamation by President Barack Obama. According to the proclamation, as powerful as any force in the natural world, fire deserves our utmost attention. Unchecked, fire can destroy homes, devastate our environment, and, at its worst, injure or fatally harm individuals. Fire Prevention Week is a time to learn about important fire safety issues and empower our communities to stay "Fire Smart." It is also a time to honor our Nation's brave firefighters and volunteers who risk their lives to protect their fellow Americans.

This week's theme is "Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned" and focuses on burn awareness and prevention. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), firefighters and safety advocates have joined together to raise awareness about fire safety.  Those advocates include the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) and Fire Corps who will provide one tip per day on an important fire prevention and safety topic. Fire departments can distribute these tips in their community or use them as part of their own campaign.

Monday, October 5: Preventing and Treating Burns:

According to Fire Corps, one of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of being burned is to be aware of your surroundings.  In the event somebody is burned,  the steps for proper treatment of that burn are important.

- Be sure to keep hot foods, liquids, and appliances (such as a curling iron) away from tables or counter edges to avoid them being knocked over or pulled down.
- When using a heating pad, do not use for durations longer than 15-20 minutes and avoid placing objects on top of the pad.
- If someone is burned, treat it right away by applying cool water for 3-5 minutes, and then cover with a clean, dry cloth.
- Remove all clothing, diapers, jewelry, and metal from the burned areas.
- If a burn is severe or bigger than a fist, seek medical attention immediately.

For more information on the NFPA's Fire Prevention Week visit their website at: www.firepreventionweek.org  and the Fire Corps Fire Prevention Week Resource Center at: www.firecorps.org/FirePreventionWeek.


Author:Barbara Brooks - FDNNTV.com