Burns & Fire Safety for Nursing Students

Burn injuries occur when the body's tissues are damaged due to heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. Given the various sources of burns, we will break them down into sections to help you understand both the causes and treatments. Understanding the science of energy transfer will make burn treatment more intuitive.

A useful slogan to remember about thermal burns is: "Hot is fast, but cold is slow." A burn from heat occurs quickly, meaning treatment must be immediate. In contrast, cold-related burns (such as frostbite) develop gradually, requiring prolonged exposure. (Note: This does not apply to Dry Ice; see Chemical Burns for more details.)

What Is the Leading Cause of Death in Burn Patients?

One of the most common causes of death related to burns is infection. As burn injuries compromise the skin barrier, they leave patients highly vulnerable to bacteria and other pathogens. We will explore infection risks and prevention methods in upcoming posts.

Common Causes of Household Fires

Improper storage of combustible materials (gasoline, hairspray, oils)
Unattended cooking, especially with oils or grease
Smoking indoors, particularly in bed or near flammable items
Faulty heating equipment or malfunctioning electrical devices
Poorly maintained fireplaces, chimneys, or flues
Unsecured or improperly inspected fire pits

Fire Prevention Strategies

Fire prevention is key to avoiding burn injuries. Following established safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of house fires. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and local fire departments provide extensive recommendations to keep you safe.

Store chemicals, fuels, and oils according to MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) or manufacturer instructions.
Avoid storing cooking oils above stoves—they can become fuel if a stove fire occurs.
Ensure fire pits are inspected and licensed according to local regulations.
Keep heat sources away from walls, siding, and other flammable materials.
Have an Emergency Response Plan (ERP). Teach your family evacuation routes and practice fire drills regularly.
Install and maintain smoke detectors in hallways near sleeping areas, at stairwells, and in each bedroom. Some provinces and territories require specific placements by law.
Never leave a fire unattended—embers can reignite unexpectedly.
Regularly inspect fire extinguishers to ensure they are up to date and functional.

Fire Safety Tips for Nursing Students

Many fires result from everyday activities involving heating equipment, appliances, electrical wiring, and cooking. Having a well-rehearsed Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is essential for fire safety.

Plan & Practice Your Fire Escape Route

Sketch a floor plan marking all rooms, doors, windows, and hallways.
Identify at least two escape routes from each room, especially sleeping areas.
Designate a meeting place outside the home for all family members.
Assign one person to call 911 once everyone is safely outside.
If staying in a hotel, familiarize yourself with escape routes and emergency procedures.
When traveling, know the local emergency number and keep it accessible.

How to Escape a Fire

Check for smoke—if present, stay low and crawl to exit quickly.
Never return to a burning building. Ensure children know how to open windows and safely lower themselves to the ground.
If unable to exit, stay put. Stuff towels, clothing, or rags around doors and vents to block smoke. Wet them if possible.
Call 911 immediately. Even if rescuers are outside, let the dispatcher know exactly where you are.
Stay calm and follow your Emergency Response Plan.

If Your Clothes Catch Fire

STOP, DROP & ROLL to smother the flames and minimize burn severity.

Fire Pit Regulations (General Guidelines)

Fire pits should be 10 to 15 feet away from combustible materials.
Pits should be no taller than 2 feet and no wider than 3 feet.
Use an ash catch screen when possible.
Keep water or an extinguisher nearby (within 20 feet).
Never use gasoline or accelerants to start a fire.
Consult your local municipality for fire pit regulations, inspections, and permits.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe

Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation can save lives. Fire safety awareness, proper emergency response planning, and quick action can prevent burn-related fatalities and severe injuries.

“This material is for informational purposes only and is based on guidelines from The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. This content does not replace professional medical advice or official safety training. Consult your physician or safety training facility for further guidance.”