Burns are injuries to the body’s tissues caused by various sources such as chemicals, electricity, heat, or radiation. Because burns can stem from so many different causes, we'll break them down into sections. This approach helps highlight the breadth of information and reveals how managing burns becomes simpler once you grasp the science behind energy. Specifically, understanding how thermal energy—whether hot or cold—affects the body in similar ways can guide treatment. Remember this phrase: “Hot is fast, but cold is slow.” This means that while heat-related burns happen quickly and should be treated swiftly, cold-related injuries develop more slowly and require more time to address. Note: This excludes dry ice, which falls under chemical burns.
A common question is, “What is the leading cause of death after a burn?” The answer is “Infection,” a topic we'll delve deeper into in subsequent posts.
Common Causes of Fire in the Home:
Insecure combustible materials (e.g., gasoline, hair spray, oil)
Unattended cooking or improper storage of cooking oils
Smoking indoors without properly extinguishing cigarettes or smoking in bed
Faulty heating equipment or electrical devices
Improperly secured or inspected fire pits
Uncleaned chimneys or furnace flues
Prevention Tips:
Always follow safety guidelines. Many fire prevention methods are outlined by Occupational Health and Safety and your local fire department for your protection.
Store chemicals, fuels, oils, and compressed cylinders according to MSDS or manufacturer specifications.
Avoid storing cooking oils above the stove, as they can act as an accelerant if a fire breaks out.
Have fire pits inspected and licensed by local authorities to ensure safety.
Keep BBQs and other heat sources away from walls, siding, or other flammable materials.
Develop and practice an Emergency Response Plan with your family, including designated escape routes and meeting points.
Ensure working smoke detectors are installed in hallways near sleeping areas, at the top of stairs, and in every bedroom. Check local legislation for specific requirements.
Never leave a fire pit or fireplace unattended—embers can reignite.
Keep fire extinguishers up to date and accessible.
Fire Safety Tips:
Fires can be caused by many common household items, including heating equipment, appliances, electrical wiring, and cooking materials. Having a Fire Safety Plan or an Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is essential for every family.
How to Plan & Practice a Fire Escape Route:
Sketch a floor plan of your home showing all rooms, doors, windows, and hallways.
Draw arrows showing escape routes from each room. Ideally, plan two exits per room, focusing on sleeping areas since most fires occur at night.
Designate a meeting place outside the home.
Assign someone to call the fire department after evacuating.
When traveling, familiarize yourself with the local emergency number and keep it handy.
If staying in a hotel, learn the escape routes and emergency procedures.
How to Escape from a Fire:
Check for smoke. If present, get low and crawl to exit the building quickly. Never return to a burning building. Ensure children know how to open windows, use a ladder, or lower themselves to the ground—practice these skills with them.
If you can’t escape: Stay in the room, stuffing towels, rags, or clothing around doors and vents. If possible, wet these materials first.
Call 911. Even if rescuers are outside, inform the dispatcher of your exact location.
Stay calm. Follow your emergency response plan, avoid smoke by staying low, and crawl to safety. Never re-enter a burning building due to the risks of smoke, heat, or explosions.
If you're on fire, remember: STOP, DROP & ROLL.
Fire Pit Regulations:
For general use, fire pits should be at least 10 to 15 feet away from any combustible material, with a maximum height of 2 feet and width of 3 feet. Use an ash catch screen when possible, and ensure water is easily accessible within 20 feet. Never use gasoline to ignite a fire. Consult your local municipality for regulations, inspections, and licensing information.
You never know what might happen, so it’s always wise to be prepared and knowledgeable to help those in need.
Just Remember: Protect Yourself!!! Call 911!!! Don't Waste Time!!!
Learn First Aid Today & Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.
“This material is for informational purposes only and sourced from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It should not replace medical, technical advice, or treatment. For questions, consult your local physician or safety training facility.”
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor