Prevention, First Aid, and Recovery

Understanding National Burns Awareness Week

National Burns Awareness Week (5-9 May) is an essential time for us at Sparkport Pharmacy to highlight burn prevention strategies and proper treatment options. Each year, thousands of people suffer from burns that could have been prevented with proper awareness and precautionary measures.

Common Causes of Burns

Burns can happen unexpectedly in everyday situations:

  • Kitchen accidents: Hot liquids, steam, and cooking oils
  • Electrical burns: Faulty wiring or improper use of electrical appliances
  • Chemical burns: Contact with household cleaning products
  • Sunburns: Extended exposure to UV rays without protection
  • Scalds: Hot bath water, especially dangerous for young children and elderly

Prevention Tips

In the Kitchen:

  • Keep pot handles turned inward on the stove
  • Use back burners when children are present
  • Establish a “kid-free zone” of at least 1 meter around cooking areas
  • Never leave cooking unattended

Around the Home:

  • Install smoke alarms and test them regularly
  • Set water heater temperatures no higher than 50°C
  • Store chemicals out of reach of children
  • Cover electrical outlets with safety caps

Outdoors:

  • Apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ regularly when outdoors
  • Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
  • Check playground equipment for hot surfaces before allowing children to play

First Aid for Burns

Quick and proper first aid can significantly reduce the severity of burns:

For Minor Burns:

  1. Cool the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 20 minutes
  2. Remove jewellery or tight items from the affected area
  3. Apply a gentle moisturizer or aloe vera gel
  4. Cover with a sterile, non-stick bandage
  5. Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed

For Severe Burns:

  1. Call emergency services immediately
  2. Do not remove burnt clothing that is stuck to the skin
  3. Cover the area with a clean, dry cloth
  4. Elevate the burnt area above heart level if possible
  5. Monitor for signs of shock until help arrives

Products Available at Sparkport Pharmacy

At Sparkport Pharmacy, we stock a range of products to help prevent and treat burns:

  • Burn-specific dressings: Advanced non-stick dressings for different burn types
  • Cooling gels: To provide immediate relief
  • Sunscreens: Wide range of SPF options for all skin types
  • After-sun care: Soothing lotions with aloe vera

When to Seek Medical Attention

While minor burns can often be treated at home, you should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • The burn affects a large area of skin
  • The burn appears deep (affecting multiple layers of skin)
  • The person shows signs of shock
  • The burn is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints
  • The burn was caused by chemicals, electricity, or fire

Our Commitment

During National Burns Awareness Week and throughout the year, Sparkport Pharmacy is committed to educating our community about burn prevention and providing expert advice on burn care. We understand the emotional journey of burn recovery Our pharmacists are always available to discuss appropriate treatment options and products for your specific needs.

Visit Sparkport Pharmacy today to speak with our knowledgeable staff about burn prevention and treatment options. We’re here to help keep you and your family safe.