Burn Awareness Week observed Feb. 6-12

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Burn Awareness Week observed Feb. 6-12

Around Osceola

Wednesday, 19 January 2011 00:00

By David Ennis
St. Cloud Fire Rescue
Fire Marshal
Did you know that young children’s skin is thinner than older children and adults, and that their skin burns at lower temperatures and more deeply?
Since burns are recognized as one of the most painful and devastating injuries a person can sustain and survive, parents should be armed with the tools to keep their children safe from this devastating injury.
Burn Awareness Week will be observed Feb. 6-12. During this year’s observance, one of the focus areas is preventing scald burn injuries.
It is important to remember that children, especially those ages 4 and under, may not perceive danger, may have less control of their environment, may lack the ability to escape a life-threatening burn situation and may not be able to tolerate the physical stress of a burn injury.
St. Cloud Fire Rescue encourages the public to follow these safety tips to keep children safe:
1. Establish a safe, hot-water temperature by setting water heaters to deliver water at a temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit or by installing anti-scald devices.
2. Do not place hot foods or liquids near a counter’s edge or within a child’s reach.
3. Do not hold children while cooking or drinking hot liquids.
4. Make the stove area a “kid-free zone” (3 feet is a good distance). Mark it on the floor with bright tape.
5.Keep electrical cords out of reach of children.
6. Turn pot handles toward back of stove. Keep long cord appliances toward back of counter.
7. Always check water temperature before placing child in tub.
8. Use safety plugs to cover electrical outlets.
9. Keep a screen or glass cover over fireplaces.
10. Keep matches and lighters in a locked box, out of reach of children.
Adults also may prevent injuries by following some of the same rules, such as keeping pot handles turned in, keeping cords out of the way and checking water temperature. As always, St. Cloud Fire Rescue is available to give fire safety presentations to groups upon request. Call 407-957-8484 for more information.