Most Common Burn Injuries In The Summer And How To Avoid Them

Sun worshippers appreciate when the clouds clear in Portland, allowing for summer days filled with fun activities. A good dose of sunscreen can help you avoid getting too red, but there are additional precautions you need to take to prevent other types of burns.  

Fire-related burns are one of the most common types of personal injuries that occur during the summer months. While burns have the potential to result in serious, potentially life-threatening harm and permanent scarring or disfigurement, there are some simple actions you can take to prevent them.

Three Common Summer Burn Injuries

MedicineNet reports that burn injuries generally increase over the summer months, and that children in particular are at risk. The following outlines three common ways these injuries occur, and what you can do to avoid them:

1. Fireworks: Part of the fun during warm weather months is sitting outside at night and watching fireworks light up the summer sky. Whether you shoot them off in your own backyard or go to sponsored firework events, it is important to keep the following in mind: 

• If hosting a private fireworks display, check with Portland Fire and Rescue to find out what is legal and what is not;
• Do not allow children near explosives, and make sure they are closely supervised when handling smaller fireworks, such as sparklers;
• Use caution approaching ‘duds’ and do not attempt to relight;
• Make sure you have an adequate water source nearby;
• At larger events, stay within designated areas, and check exits in the event of an emergency.

2. Campfires: Sitting around a firepit or a campfire telling ghost stories and laughing with friends is a rite of passage during the summer months. At the same time, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety:

• Obey any fire warnings in state and local parks;
• Have a hose or other water source nearby;
• Avoid building too big of a fire and be mindful of loose clothing items that could ignite while tending it;
• Do not sit too close, and clear the area around your fire to protect against flying sparks;
• Douse the fire with water and make sure it is out completely out before going to sleep or leaving the area

3. Cookouts: Few things taste as good on a summer day as a hot dog or burger right from the grill. When hosting cookouts at home or in campgrounds and parks, be mindful of the following:

• Use caution when using lighter fluid, and avoid getting it on your hands, clothing, or the area surrounding the grill;
• Keep a water bottle handy to douse any large flames due to dripping oil or grease;
• Keep children clear of the grilling area, and keep a set of pot holders nearby;
• Never leave your grill unattended for even a moment, and make sure the gas is off or douse the coals when finished.

In all of these activities, alcohol can increase your risks of an accident. Play it safe, and limit your consumption. If your injuries occurred as the result of another’s reckless or negligent actions, contact the Johnston Law Firm to see how our Portland personal injury attorney can help.