Experts at Children's Hospital offer advice to #BeBurnsAware this Bonfire Night
Experts at Birmingham Children’s Hospital are urging parents to #BeBurnsAware this Bonfire Night by staying safe and remembering the simple 3Cs – Cool, Call and Cover – should an injury occur.
The specialist Burns Centre team has treated more than 400 babies and young people for serious burns and scalds over the last year – two thirds of which occur in those under the age of five.
Families are being urged to take simple precautions to stay safe at this time of the year, when there’s typically an increase in injuries.
As temperatures drop more accidental burns from naked flames or tea lights occur. These can easily be avoided by using a fire guard or keeping candles out of the reach of children.
The hospital’s burns team would always recommend that families attend public firework displays that are stewarded. However, by following this simple advice it’s possible to enjoy fireworks safely at home.
Remember that fireworks should only be set off by a responsible adult, with children and young people kept at a safe distance. Once a firework is lit, you should never go back to it and store them safely away in a secure box.
If you’re enjoying sparklers, please remember to not give them to children under the age of five. Always light them one at a time and wearing gloves can protect your hands from sparks.
Should the worst happen and an injury does occur quick action can reduce the potential for long-term injury or scarring. Remembering the 3Cs in such an event can make all the difference:
- Cool the burn with running cold tap water for 20 minutes and remove all clothing and jewellery (unless it is melted or firmly stuck to the wound).
- Call for help – 999, 111 or your GP for advice.
- Cover with cling film or a sterile, non-fluffy dressing or cloth. Make sure the injured child is kept warm.