Changing leaves, cool breezes and cozy nights are here, and as the weather starts to change and Central Indiana prepares for the ‘ber months, Eskenazi Health has several tips for Hoosiers.
The Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center at Eskenazi Health urges everyone to be cautious while participating in their favorite fall activities, including campfire/bonfires and fall decorating.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 832 home structure fires began with decorations per year causing 28 fire injuries. Nearly 47% of these fires occur due to decorations being too close to a heat source (candle, hot equipment, etc.).
“Although temperatures will drop in Central Indiana, people can never be too careful in practicing fire safety precautions,” said Leigh Spera, M.D., medical director of the Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center. “There are several ways to avoid fire injuries this fall such as, simply unplugging space heaters before leaving a room.”
As season festivities shift, Dr. Spera warns about the placement of decorations and ensuring safety is always followed. When preparing for the upcoming fall season, please keep the following in mind:
- Do not place decorations near open flames and other heat sources.
- Check that decorative lights have been tested for safety; examine fall lights for broken sockets and frayed wires.
- Consider glow sticks or battery-operated candles instead of real candles for jack-o-lanterns.
While leaves fall from the trees, it is customary for many to participate in campfires and bonfires. Always remember the following to prevent injuries and further damage.
- Be at least 25 feet away from structures before building a fire, and stay clear of any dry leaves and sticks, overhanging branches and shrubs.
- Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid. Please use a match or lighter to ignite tinder (small twigs and dry leaves); add large sticks and pieces of dry wood.
- Keep fires small and controlled; never leave unattended.
- Keep a hose, bucket of water or a shovel and dirt or sand nearby to extinguish and be sure the fire is completely out before leaving.
“Stop, drop and roll is still the recommended method to put out a fire on the body caused by camp and bushfires.” Dr. Spera said. “If you are burned, remove all clothing and jewelry from the burned area and apply cool (not cold) water to stop the burning process. Cover the area with a dry, loose bandage or sheet. Immediately seek medical attention and call 911.”
The American Burn Association (ABA) and the American College of Surgeons recently recertified the Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center as a recognized adult regional burn center. The burn center is renowned as one of the finest and most progressive burn centers in the country. The Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center is the first and most experienced verified adult burn center in Indiana. For more information on burn prevention, please call the Richard M. Fairbanks Burn Center’s burn prevention hotline at 1.866.339.BURN.