COLUMBUS, Ohio — Every two minutes in the United States, someone suffers a burn injury severe enough to need medical attention. To address this concern, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of State Fire Marshal is urging Ohioans to prioritize safe handling of flammable liquids during National Burn Awareness Week, running from February 4th to 10th.
“Flammable liquids are a common household item, but they can also pose a serious threat if not handled properly,” emphasized State Fire Marshal Kevin S. Reardon. “This week, we’re raising awareness and emphasizing safe practices to prevent these often preventable injuries.”
While most burn injury survivors (96.8%) live, many face long-term consequences like scarring, physical limitations, and emotional challenges. National Burn Awareness Week highlights the importance of caution with flammable liquids, which are present in both homes and workplaces.
Here are some safety tips from the Division of State Fire Marshal to prevent burns from flammable liquids:
- Store them safely: Use approved containers and keep them away from heat sources and children.
- Match the fuel: Choose the right type of fuel for each appliance, be it a lamp or heater.
- Never refuel near flames: Avoid pouring flammable liquids anywhere near open flames or running equipment
By educating ourselves and practicing safe handling, we can significantly reduce the number of burn injuries and keep our communities safer. So, this week, remember: every drop of awareness counts in preventing burn tragedies.