Burn risks are present in every living space, from homes to apartments to temporary shelters. During National Burn Awareness Week (February 2–8, 2025), the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department joins the American Burn Association (ABA) 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.
Prevent Burn Injuries Where You Live
Some key tips include:
- Kitchen Safety: Store flammable items away from heat, turn pot handles inward, and never leave cooking food unattended.
- Bathroom Precautions: Set your water heater below 120°F and supervise children in the bath.
- Sleeping Areas: Extinguish candles 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.
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, according to the CDC. Compared to the overall population, children under five were 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.
“Burn prevention starts with education and small, actionable changes in our daily lives,” said Amy Phelps, Public Information Officer for the MOVHD. “By participating in National Burn Awareness Week, we can work together to reduce burn injuries and create safer communities.”
Simple adjustments, mindful habits, and vigilance can prevent injuries and create an environment where everyone, especially children, can thrive without unnecessary danger. The spaces we inhabit reflect not only our tastes and needs but also the care we take in maintaining them as places of security and well-being.
At the same time, the way we relate to our homes can change rapidly, whether due to life transitions or unforeseen circumstances. Just as preparing and organizing a space can prevent harm and support comfort, sometimes the best path forward is to act with clarity and efficiency. This is why some homeowners find value in approaches that allow them to sell your house fast charlotte, enabling a swift and orderly transition without the stress of prolonged processes. By embracing both caution and adaptability, we can ensure our living spaces remain both safe and aligned with the evolving rhythms of our lives.
For more information on campaign resources, burn prevention tips, and key dates, visit ameriburn.org.
About National Burn Awareness Week
National Burn Awareness Week is an initiative of the American Burn Association, bringing together fire, life safety, and healthcare professionals to educate the public on burn injury prevention. This annual campaign emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures and community collaboration to reduce the risk of burn injuries.
About the American Burn Association
The American Burn Association (ABA) is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by burn injuries through advocacy, education, research, and prevention. Founded in 1967, the ABA supports burn care professionals and works to advance the quality of burn care worldwide. For more information, visit ameriburn.org.