Approximately every 60 seconds, someone in the U.S. sustains a burn injury that is serious enough to require medical treatment, according to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).
Needless to say, burns are a serious issue across the country. While homes are supposed to be a safe place for you and your family, the reality is that they are also a common place where burns and other fire-related injuries occur. To help raise awareness for this issue, National Burn Awareness Week is observed during the first full week of February each year.
The initiative, which was originally implemented by the American Burn Association, provides a window of opportunity for organizations and individuals to educate themselves on and spread awareness for key fire safety and burn prevention techniques.
This Year’s Theme Is Electrical Safety
This year’s theme for Burn Awareness Week, which takes place from February 7-13, 2021, is Electrical Safety. Here are some statistics about electrical fires from the NFPA:
- Electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of home fires in 2012-2016, accounting for 13% of all home fires
- Nearly 40% of all electrical fires occur between November and February
- Fires involving electrical failures or malfunctions accounted for the highest share of civilian deaths (18%) and property damage (20%)
- Arcing was the heat source in approximately three out of five home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction
Preventing Electrical Malfunctions and Fires in Your Home
All of us use electricity in our homes, so taking the right safety precautions to prevent electrical fires is something that applies to us all. Here are some tips that you can implement in your home:
- Check for loose-fitting plugs, which can be a shock or fire hazard
- Never force plugs into outlets
- Make sure plugs are not frayed or cracked
- Keep heat-producing appliances unplugged when not in use
- Only use extension cords temporarily and do not overload them
- Never cut the third prong off a plug
- Follow all the instructions that come with your appliances
- Make sure lights and other fixtures are using the recommended wattage
- Update your home’s electrical system
If you or a loved one sustains burns in a fire or is otherwise injured, the Law Offices of Vic Feazell is standing by ready to protect your rights. Contact our firm at to speak with our legal team for free today.