Mega Doctor News
EDINBURG, Texas – Burn risks are present in every living space, from homes to apartments to temporary shelters and even office spaces. During National Burn Awareness Week from February 2–8, 2025, DHR Health’s Level 1 Trauma Center joins the American Burn Association in raising awareness about preventing burn injuries and fires in the home.
This year’s theme, “Burn Prevention Starts Where You Live,” highlights practical steps to reduce burn hazards in kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping areas, and storage spaces. Simple, proactive changes can help prevent life-altering injuries and create safer living environments for everyone.
“Burns are among the most preventable injuries, and we want to try to prevent these injuries because they can cause significant pain, long-term disability, and even death,” said Dr. R. Dewayne Edwards, DHR Health Level I Trauma Center surgeon. “It’s an important time to raise awareness and help inform our community about how we can prevent possible tragedies.”
As such, the DHR Health’s Level 1 Trauma Center would like to provide the following household burn prevention injury tips to keep in mind.
Child safety: Children are especially vulnerable to getting themselves in dangerous burn situations. Therefore, keep hot drinks, food, and cooking utensils out of their reach. Install safety covers on electrical outlets, and use childproof latches on cabinets containing cleaning products or hot appliances.
Kitchen safety: Store flammable items away from heat, turn pot handles on the stove inward, and never leave cooking food unattended, and keep children away from the stove or cooking area.
Bathroom precaution safety: Set your water heater below 120°F and supervise children in the bath at all times.
Sleeping area safety: Use candles with caution and be sure to extinguish them fully before sleeping and keep heat sources away from fabrics.
General home safety: Test smoke alarms regularly, charge devices safely, and store chemicals out of reach.
Storage space safety: Always store flammable liquids in containers designed for safety and store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from the stove, heater, and direct sun light.
Firework safety: If you celebrate with fireworks, use them only outdoors, away from buildings, dry grass and flammable materials. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby and never point fireworks toward people or animals.
Outdoor grilling safety: Always use a fire pit and outdoor fireplaces safely, making sure the fire is completely out before leaving the area.
According to the Center for Disease Control, burn injuries continue to be a significant public health issue, with more than 398,000 people seeking medical care for burns in the United States in 2021. Compared to the overall population, children under five are 2.0 times as likely to be seen for burn injuries at a hospital emergency department. Many of these injuries occur in the home and are preventable through awareness and education.
