Iowa City, IA January 31, 2025 — Burn risks are present in every living space, from homes to apartments to temporary shelters. During National Burn Awareness Week (February 2–8, 2025), the Burn Treatment Center at the University of Iowa Healthcare joins the American Burn Association (ABA) in raising awareness about preventing burn injuries and fires in the home.
 

This year’s theme, “Burn Prevention Starts Where You Live,” highlights practical steps to reduce burn hazards in kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping areas, and storage spaces. Simple, proactive changes can help prevent life-altering injuries and create safer living environments for everyone.
 

Prevent Burn Injuries Where You Live Some key tips include:

•  Kitchen Safety: Store flammable items away from heat, turn pot handles inward, and never leave cooking food unattended.
• Bathroom Precautions: Set your water heater below 120°F and supervise children in the bath.
• Sleeping Areas: Extinguish candles before sleeping and keep heat sources away from fabrics.
• General Home Safety: Test smoke alarms regularly, charge devices safely, and store chemicals out of reach.
   

Burn injuries continue to be a significant public health issue, with more than 398,000 people seeking medical care for burns in the United States in 2021, according to the CDC. Compared to the overall population, children under five were 2.0 times as likely to be seen for burn injuries at a hospital emergency department. Many of these injuries occur in the home and are preventable through awareness and education.
 

“Burn prevention starts with education and small, actionable changes in our daily lives,” said Dr. Samuel Jones, Director of the Burn Treatment Center. “By participating in National Burn Awareness Week, we can work together to reduce burn injuries and create safer communities.”
 

For more information on campaign resources, burn prevention tips, and key dates, visit

https://uihc.org/services/burn-treatment-center or ameriburn.org