Thermal burns have three potential sources: hot liquids (scalds), hot objects (contact burns), and flames. Burns from flames can be exceptionally dangerous when the victim is wearing lose clothing or something flammable like hairspray or bug spray.
Who is at risk for flame burns?
A study in the Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation found that people aged 15 to 29 are more at risk for flame burns, particularly during the summer months when people commonly use fires for things like bonfires, yard work, and boating. The two most common factors involved in fire burns are gasoline (63 percent of the cases) and the consumption of alcohol (26 percent of the cases).
But fires can start anywhere, and anyone is susceptible.
- Cars may ignite in a collision.
- Someone may catch her sleeve on nearby candle.
- Line cooks can get burned by flames in the kitchen.
- A worker’s clothing may catch fire during an electrical fire.
- People can get caught in burning buildings.
- Someone may spray lighter fluid on coals in a pit or grill and the flames could set him on fire.
What is the emergency procedure for flame burns?
Quick thinking during a fire emergency saves lives and reduces the severity of the injuries. If ever you are caught on fire, the basic fire safety you learned in school still applies: Stop, Drop, and Roll.
If the burning continues even after rolling on the ground, there may be a flammable accelerant present. In this case, take off the garments that are on fire or smoldering.
How are fire burns treated?
The way a burn caused by a flame is treated depends on its severity. If the injury is only superficial (a first-degree burn), basic home remedies such as using a cool compress and taking ibuprofen should suffice.
More serious burns (second-degree, third-degree, and fourth-degree) require medical attention though. Doctors may treat these burns with the following.
- Cleaning the wound
- Bandaging
- Pain medication, both over-the-counter and prescription
- Antibiotic ointments
- Skin graft surgery
Is there anything else I should know about flame burns?
If the thermal burns are the third- or fourth-degree level, you will be at high risk for complications, such as shock, blood loss, and infections. Plus, there are emotional ramifications of disfiguring flame burn injuries that can impact just about every aspect your life, from your family life and career, to your body image. Some burn victims require treatment for the psychological distress associated with their burn injuries.
Also, understanding how your burn occurred may be an important factor to consider. What was the source of the fire? Did something malfunction and ignite? Was there a fire hazard that a property owner should have foreseen and prevented? It may be important to investigate the causes of the fire because you might qualify to secure compensation for your injuries in a burn injury claim.
A lawyer referral specialist can help you find a lawyer in your area who can answer your questions and help you file a claim to recover compensation for your losses and expenses. Call 844-549-8774.