National Burn Awareness Week is an essential time to raise awareness about burn prevention, safety, and treatment. For 2024, the theme is flammable liquid safety.
Kathe M. Conlon, BSN, RN, CEM, MSHS, and Director of Burn Community Programs at The Burn Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, provides the following information about flammable liquids.
Flammable liquids are any liquid that can easily ignite at room temperature.
Examples of flammable liquids include gasoline, beauty products, household cleaner, sanitizers, and paint solvents.
They pose two primary hazards, including explosion or fire. It is not the liquid that ignites, but that vapors that catch fire.
To reduce the risk of injury:
- Use products in well-ventilated areas.
- Never mix products.
- Always store and discard combustibles according to manufacturer’s instructions.
If a spill does occur:
- Use appropriate absorbent materials for cleanup.
- If liquids come in contact with skin, or splashes into the eye, immediately flush the area with water for several minutes.
- Seek medical attention for additional care.
For more information, or to schedule a burn prevention program, visit The Burn Center at Cooperman Barnabas website at www.njburncenter.com.