If you have ever suffered a burn, even a minor burn from a hot stove or plate, you know how extremely painful it can be. According to the American Burn Association, approximately 486,000 people experienced burn injuries that were severe enough to require a visit to the hospital emergency departments in 2016 alone.
Over 60% of those who had to visit the hospital due to burn injuries were admitted to specialized burn centers due to the severity of their burns. What are the most common causes of burn injuries that residents of New York City might experience? What are the lasting consequences of burn injuries?
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in New York City
According to the Mayo Clinic, burn injuries consist of tissue damage and can be caused by exposure to heat, radiation, the sun, or electrical or chemical contact. Personal injuries due to burns are commonly caused by the following:
- Exposure of the skin to fire;
- Exposure of the skin to steam or hot liquid;
- Electrical burns;
- Radiation exposure;
- Overexposure to tanning beds or the sun;
- Acids, paint thinner, gasoline, or strong acid.
With the prevalence of radiators in New York City apartments, burns from touching hot heaters are a risk for residents. Because of the dense population of buildings in New York City, fires and wounds resulting from fires are always a threat.
How to Prevent Burn Injuries
Taking a few simple steps can help reduce the chances that you or a loved one will be the victim of burn injuries:
- Check for hot buckles or straps before placing your children in the car;
- Do not step out of the kitchen when items are cooking on the stove;
- Do not hold children while cooking on the stove or put hot liquid or food within reach of children on a countertop;
- Keep your water heater temperature to below 120 degrees F and test your children’s bath water before putting them in the bath.
Long Lasting Consequences of Burn Injuries
Burns injuries are some of the most painful injuries one can endure. Along with the severe pain of burns, burns can also result in bacterial infections since the skin’s natural defenses are missing after a burn. Bacterial infections can quickly become bloodstream infections, also known as sepsis. Burns can also result in low blood volume due to fluid loss.
Another risk of severe burns is hypothermia brought on by a lowered body temperature. If you have suffered burns due to a fire, you may also suffer lung damage or breathing problems from inhaling smoke. Once your burn injuries heal, you may have to contend with thick scar tissue known as keloid scarring. Finally, when scar tissue from burns tightens and shortens skin, this can cause joint, bone, and muscle problems that can cause pain and immobility.
Unfortunately, burn injuries are rather common in the United States. Moderate and severe burn injuries can cause severe problems for yourself and your family. If you or a family member experienced a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact the experienced New York personal injury attorneys at Pulvers Thompson to set up your consultation.
