Burn injuries are notoriously dangerous and painful, and can even be deadly. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1.1 million burn injuries in the U.S. each year require emergency medical care, and about 4,500 are fatal.
The holidays often pose an increased risk of fire or burn injuries, especially when candles, holiday lights, and extra cooking and baking become part of the festivities. Here are some simple ways you can help reduce the risk of a burn injury hurting you or someone you love this season:
- Install and double-check your smoke detectors to ensure they work. You should have at least one smoke detector on every floor of your house, as well as one in or immediately outside each bedroom.
- Create an escape plan. Draw a map of your house that shows at least two ways out of every room. Windows can serve as emergency exits if needed. Designate a spot at a distance from the house for everyone to “meet up” if an evacuation is required. Practice using the escape plan and the meet-up spot.
- Use fires carefully. Never leave burning candles or fireplaces unattended, and light them only in an area cleared of debris and other objects.
If you or someone you love suffers a severe burn injury this holiday season, please don’t hesitate to call a skilled Colorado Springs burn injury attorney at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. to learn more about your legal rights and options. Our number is (719) 475-2555, and your call is free and confidential.