Weekly Safety Tip: National Burn Awareness Week–Burn Prevention Starts Where You Live
National Burn Awareness Week, observed Feb. 2–8, 2025, promotes burn prevention and awareness. This year’s theme focuses on reducing burn risks in homes, apartments, and all living spaces. Taking simple, proactive actions can help prevent burns and keep everyone safe.
- General living areas:
- Charge devices and store chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Store flammable items away from stoves, heaters, and electrical outlets.
- Clean lint from the dryer after each use.
- Avoid heating pads without an auto shut-off feature.
- Don’t overload your outlets. Keep electrical cords safe and in good condition.
- Cooking:
- When heating food in the microwave, use microwave-safe cookware that allows steam to escape.
- Allow food to rest before removing from the microwave.
- Use oven mitts when handling hot items.
- Don’t multitask when carrying hot food.
- Use stable, heat-resistant dishes.
- Keep hot liquids spill-proof.
- Keep hot foods and liquids away from the ledges of tables and counters.
- Use timers when cooking and never leave cooking food unattended.
- Know where the nearest fire extinguisher is located.
Questions? heidi.fleming@desales.edu