This week marks National Burn Awareness Week, running from February 2 to 8. The week focuses on preventing burn-related accidents within the confines of our homes. Such spaces that should be sanctuaries are not immune to hazards, as highlighted by the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Safety, often a hardwood floor away from compromise, is nudged into the limelight, underscoring the importance of safeguarding our living areas from the lurking dangers of burns, which can stem from the most mundane household activities, as per the Washington State Patrol.

The National Fire Protection Association’s 2018 Scald Prevention Safety Tip Sheet revealed that scalding ranks high on domestic burn injuries, where young children whose curiosity knows no bounds are the most susceptible. They are particularly at risk for such accidents because their awareness of danger is yet to be honed.

During this National Burn Awareness Week, several precautionary measures are advocated for in every cranny of the household; these include ensuring cords are kept far from the innocent reach of children and the oblivious trail of pets also making sure they are not strewn across paths inviting trips and tumbles, fire safety also dictates smoke alarms should be checked monthly for operational consistency.