Burns don’t just happen in labs or kitchens. They can occur anywhere on campus, from residence halls to offices and breakrooms. In recognition of National Burn Awareness Week, here are a few simple ways students, faculty, and staff can reduce burn risks:
In the kitchen & breakrooms:
- Never leave cooking or microwaves unattended.
- Open lids away from your face to avoid steam burns.
- Be mindful when handling hot drinks or food on the go.
In labs & workspaces:
- Wear appropriate PPE when working with heat, chemicals, or open flames.
- Know the location of safety showers, eyewash stations, and fire extinguishers.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
Everywhere on campus:
- Don’t place hot items near edges of tables or desks.
- Allow electronics to cool before storing them.
- Keep exits and fire safety equipment unobstructed.
If a burn does occur: cool it under cool running water for 20 minutes, cover it loosely, and seek medical help for serious burns.
Preventing burns starts with awareness — and a few extra seconds of caution can make all the difference. Let’s keep our campus safe and burn-free!
Questions? Contact Heidi Fleming at heidi.fleming@desales.edu.