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Table 2 Burn preventions strategies adapted from the WHO [10]

From: Burn prevention in the face of global wealth inequality

Prevention

Background

Solution

Fire detection systems and sprinkler

House fires are still a major cause of burns and inhalation injuries.

Fire detection devices (based on smoke detection) and sprinklers should be mandatory for all new buildings.

Temperature regulation on hot water heater

In children, scald burns are more common than flame burns.

To lower the set temperature of water heaters to roughly 50 °C (~120 °F).

Nonflammable fabrics

Clothes can easily catch fire, especially from contact with open fire (cigarettes, candles) or stoves.

The use of nonflammable sleepwear especially for children and toddlers.

Electrical safety

Electrical burns are the most sever type of burns and usually result in severe sequelae.

To ensure that electricity is used and delivered safely. Techniques for safety such as adequate insulation are necessary.

Fire-Safe-Cigarettes

Fire from tobacco products are also a leading cause for burn injuries worldwide.

Ideally, stop the use of tobacco and smoking would be the best prevention. However, stopping indoor smoking is a step forward.

Safer fireworks

Burns from fireworks are a problem of both, high- and middle-income countries.

The purchase and use of fireworks needs to be more strictly regulated.

Safer stoves and lamps

Even nowadays, many households in middle- and low-income countries use open fires for daily cooking.

The goal is to create a safer methods for daily cooking in those countries. New type of stoves and lamps are part of ongoing developments.

Combating acid-throwing

The throwing of acids on faces leading in severe damage and disfigurement has become very popular.

Prevent the disposal of acids as well as the prevention of violence are the main goals to prevent those chemical burns.