Burns and Electric Shock - Prevention
Most burns happen in the home. Simple
safety measures decrease the chances
of anyone getting burned.
Home safety measures
- Do not smoke in bed.
- Place smoke
alarms and other fire safety devices in strategic locations in your home, such
as in the kitchen and bedrooms and near fireplaces or stoves. Smoke detectors
need to be checked and to have the batteries replaced regularly. A good way to
remember to do this is to check smoke detectors twice a year when daylight
savings and standard time change.
- Make a fire escape plan, and make
sure the family knows it (babysitters, too).
- Keep a fire
extinguisher near the kitchen and have it checked yearly. Learn how to use it.
Put out food or grease fires in a pan with a lid or another
- Set your water heater at
120 °F (50 °C) or lower. Always
test the temperature of bathwater.
- Store cleaning
solutions and paints in containers in well-ventilated areas.
proper fuses in electrical boxes, do not overload outlets, and use insulated
and grounded electrical cords.
- Keep trash cleaned up in attics,
basements, and garages.
- Be careful with gas equipment such as lawn
mowers, snowblowers, and chain saws.
- Be careful with any flammable substances used to start fires, such as lighter fluid.
- Avoid fireworks. Think of
safety first when dealing with fireworks.
Your local fire department is a good resource for more
information on how to prevent fires, make a fire escape plan, use fire safety
devices, and provide first-aid treatment for burns.