No one wants to be burned by a fire, nor does anyone want to be scalded from hot liquid or steam. These injuries are painful and may result in long term care, scarring and in some cases death. Most burn injuries happen in a person’s home more than anywhere else, and the most common places in a home are in the kitchen, dining rooms and bathrooms. Although everyone is capable of getting a burn, infants and young children are at the most risk – their skin is thinner than the average adult. People with disabilities and older adults are also more susceptible to burns. Because of this, Burn Awareness Week, February 6-12, 2011, is designed to provide the following burn, fire and life saving safety tips:

• The maximum water temperature in a resident should be no more than 120˚F (48˚C).
• Be sure to carefully read all cautions on sides of gasoline containers.
• Review all safety precautions when using a portable fuel container.
• Children should never use gasoline – it should be kept out of reach at all times.
• Install anti-scald or tempering devices.
• Never use gas to start a fire.
• Do not store gasoline in your vehicle or in any living/high traffic area.
• Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors.
• Keep gasoline containers closed when not in use.
• When filling a tub, turn the cold water on first, and then add hot. Turn off the hot water first. This can prevent scalding.
• Try to avoid flushing toilets, running water or the use of a washer while someone is showering.
• Keep children a safe distance away from countertops or stovetops, hot liquids, hot surfaces or other cooking hazards.
• Keep all pot handles turned back, away from the stove edge and all appliance cords should be places away from the counter edge

And remember, in case of an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.