Focus on Fire Prevention
As the daughter, sister, and aunt of firefighters, Marie-Eileen Onieal knows that one week in October is dedicated to fire prevention. With that in mind, she reminds us, "Over the years, as we have concentrated efforts toward other areas in need of recognition, I think perhaps we have overlooked fire safety... Many, if not all, fire tragedies can be avoided if we educate our patients on the simple strategies to protect themselves—just as we educate them about health promotion strategies."
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Use safe cooking practices: Never leave food unattended on the stove, and turn pot handles away from the edge of the stove.
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If you use a propane grill, check the gas tank hose for leaks before using it for the first time each year.
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Clean lint out of the dryer vent pipe and check that the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating.
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If you burn candles, keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.
Teach your family and your patients about fire prevention. For more information, log onto the National Fire Protection Association Web site (www.nfpa.org). Let’s include fire and burn injuries on the list of “never events.” And remember: If you do have a fire, get out of the house and call the fire department.
REFERENCES
1. National Fire Protection Association. www.nfpa .org. Accessed September 18, 2012.
2. Runyan SW, Casteel C (eds). The State of Home Safety in America: Facts About Unintentional Injuries in the Home. 2nd ed. Washington, DC: Home Safety Council; 2004.
3. Fire Sprinkler Initiative. www.firesprinklerinitia tive.org. Accessed September 18, 2012.
4. Shriners Hospitals for Children. www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org. Accessed September 18, 2012.
5. American Burn Association. Burn Incidence and Treatment in the United States: 2011 Fact Sheet. www.ameriburn.org. Accessed September 18, 2012.
6. Klein MB, Hollingworth W, Rivara FP, et al. Hospital costs associated with pediatric burn injury. J Burn Care Res. 2008;29(4):632-637.
7. CDC. Fire Deaths and Injuries: Fact Sheet. www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/fire-preven tion/fires-factsheet.html. Accessed September 18, 2012.
