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Myths Around Burn Injuries

Disclaimer: The information presented in this campaign is derived from the experiences and narratives of burn survivors, as well as insights from healthcare professionals, to raise awareness and foster support for burn injury recovery and advocacy.

Every year Diwali sees burn injuries which dampens the festive spirits. The myths around burn injuries are prevalent in daily life and first aid during emergencies similarly makes further treatment challenging.

From the training of doctors, nurses and technicians to peer-reviewed publications, the awareness for first aid in burns is widely discussed medically to support the need for awareness among the general public. In real-life scenarios, people are unaware and the myths around burn injuries and accident prevention cause evident treatment challenges.

 By debunking these myths and encouraging people to adopt effective prevention strategies, we can help reduce the risk of burn injuries and improve safety for everyone.

There are several myths surrounding burn injuries and accident prevention that can lead to misunderstandings about safety and treatment. Here are some common ones collected from general conversations & posts on social media:

     Myths About Burn Injuries
MythReality
All burns are the sameBurns are classified into different degrees (first, second, third, and fourth), each requiring different treatments. First-degree burns (like sunburn) are less severe than third-degree burns, which can damage deeper tissues.
 Cold water can make burns worseCool (not ice-cold) water is often recommended for first-degree and some second-degree burns. It helps soothe the area and reduce damage if applied promptly. It is recommended to cool the burn area with cool water for about 20 minutes or till the pain subsides.
Butter or oil can be used to treat burnsApplying butter or oil can trap heat and worsen the burn. It’s better to use clean, cool water or a specialized burn ointment.  
You can’t get a burn from hot liquids if you’re carefulScalding burns from hot liquids can occur quickly and unexpectedly, even with caution. Always keep hot liquids out of reach of children.
 Sunburns are harmlessRepeated sunburns can lead to long-term skin damage, increase the risk of skin cancer, and cause premature ageing
Myths About Accident Prevention
Smoke detectors are enough for fire safetyWhile smoke detectors are essential, having a comprehensive fire safety plan that includes escape routes and regular drills is crucial.
Only children are at risk for burn injuriesThough burn injuries are more common in children, burns can happen to anyone, regardless of age. Adults can also suffer severe burns, especially in kitchen accidents or industrial settings.
You only need to worry about fires in the kitchenWhile kitchen fires are common, other areas, such as living rooms (from candles) or bathrooms (from hot water), can also pose burn risks.
Fire safety measures are too expensive or complicatedMany effective fire safety measures, like creating a fire escape plan or regularly checking smoke detectors, are low-cost or free
 It’s safe to use electrical appliances if they appear undamaged.Even undamaged appliances can be hazardous if used improperly or overloaded. Regular checks and following manufacturer guidelines are essential.

ACCIDENT PREVENTION TIPS

  • Educate Yourself and Others:

Understanding burn risks and first aid can save lives. Keep emergency numbers handy.

Here are few

  • Ambulance Helpline Number: 102
  • Fire Helpline Number: 101
  • Police Helpline Number: 100

Our Hospital Partner Details

  • Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms:

Check batteries regularly and replace alarms every ten years. Keep a maintenance record. Learn how to use the fire extinguisher; make children and others equipped with practical knowledge.

  • Create a Fire Escape Plan:

Practice it with your family, ensuring everyone knows how to get out safely.

Practice it regularly in the office and ensure fire safety drills are conducted in schools and residential complexes.

Keep a disaster management kit ready – First Aid Box, one change of clothes, Photocopies of all identify and building documents and other essentials (can add disaster management kit link )

  • Supervise Children:

 Always keep an eye on children near hot surfaces, liquids, or flames. Especially during Diwali when they are excited to burst crackers encourage them not to burst crackers for a safer environment and self.

  • Be Cautious with Hot Liquids:

Try keeping hot items out of reach and while handling wear safety gloves if possible or use covering handles or goggles.

By debunking these myths and adopting effective prevention strategies, you can help reduce the risk of burn injuries and improve safety for everyone.

We are ending by:

Edited by
DR Peerzada Umar Farooq

Additional Professor
Department of Plastic, Reconstructive Microsurgery and Burns
Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, J&K-190011, India

Executive Member, Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI) 2023-25
Executive Member, National Academy of Burns India (NABI) 2022-24
Executive Member, North Zone Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (NZAPSI) 2022-24


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Burn Healing Foundation

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