Fire Service Joins Forces To Combat Burn Injuries Across The County 

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is proud to support National Burn Awareness Day.

The day, which takes place annually during the middle of October, is to prevent burn injuries from happening across our county, and even the country.

Unfortunately, Nottinghamshire is in the top four areas within the UK for burn and scald injuries, with the main cause of the injuries being caused by hot drinks and other fluids, as well as electrical cooking appliances such as hobs.

Burn injuries are among the most painful injuries that can occur, affecting individuals and their families. They can happen in an instant, often leading to severe physical and emotional consequences.

Sadly, we saw this for ourselves back in May 2022, when 81-year-old Derek was burned in his daughters back garden, following an out-of-control bonfire.

At the same time as the incident took place, a passerby had noticed Derek in distress, when he decided to get out of his car and help.

Derek said: “As the gentlemen was running towards me, he asked his partner to call 999. When he got to me, he started to do first aid and cool me down with cold water.

After I got transported to hospital, I was told that the twenty minutes tepid water treatment saved my life. It was painful, and cold, but my case just proves how important it is.

“I would like to thank the gentlemen who started first aid with me until the medical professionals arrived on scene – it’s hard to say what the outcome would have been if he hadn’t had been there – and of course, thank you to the amazing emergency services for their response.”

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has also been working with Kristina Stiles, Ambassador of Children’s Burns Trust and burns nurse specialist, ahead of National Burn Awareness Day.

Kristina said: “In 2023, 9,939 adults and 8,551 children were burned or scalded. These figures are huge, and we are working with many organisations around the country to ensure incidents that cause severe burns and injuries are prevented.

“It is extremely important that everyone knows what to do if they were having to treat a burn or scald. We encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the three C’s, because you never know when you might need it.”

The message we want to get across is very clear – everyone should know what the steps are to help treat a burn if they were ever needed to:

1. Cool – If someone suffers a burn, it’s crucial to cool the area immediately. Remove any clothing, nappies, or jewellery near the burn. Use cool running water for at least twenty minutes as this helps reduce pain and prevents further skin damage.
2. Call – If the burn is larger than a 50p coin, or you’re unsure how to treat it, don’t hesitate to call NHS 111 or your local GP. In an emergency, always call 999.

3. Cover – After cooling the burn, gently cover it with clingfilm or a clean, non-fluffy dressing or cloth until the burn is seen by a healthcare professional. This protects the area from infection and further injury.

Please remember that the three C’s can make a significant difference in burn care, and ultimately, can save a life.

You can visit the Children's Burns Trust website for more information.