Aspirus Health shares safety tips to prevent burns

Cooking hamburgers on the grill. Roasting hot dogs and toasting marshmallows over an open fire. These summer delights can be hard to resist for both adults and children, but it’s important to stay safe when enjoying them.

The summer months are among the busiest time of year for emergency rooms. Common reasons for summertime visits to the emergency room include burns from fireworks and sparklers, and injuries and burns caused by a campfire, grilling or sun exposure.

By erring on the side of caution, you can prevent injury for yourself and those around you,” said Brittany Schneller, NP-C, nurse practitioner from Aspirus Health.

Whether you’re the master griller, enjoying your favorite fireworks show, or having fun in the sun, keep these tips from Aspirus Health top of mind:

• Pay attention. Keep an eye on your surroundings. Knowing where the fire pit or grill is located is key. These items can heat up quickly or stay warm after use.
• Keep an extinguisher close by. Fire and burns go together. Prevent them by keeping a fire extinguisher close by for any related emergent needs.
• Use protection. Use tongs, a grilling gate, or a cooking stick, and keep hot foods and liquids away from the edges of tables or counters.
• Create a “kid-free zone” or make sure you have adequate supervision for children when a grill or fire pit is in use.
• Avoid the sun in the middle of the day. Make sure to always wear sunscreen, especially from about 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Space is key. If you are enjoying fireworks, make sure to light them in an open, clear area away from cars, buildings and people.

If you experience a large burn, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. For more information, visit aspirus.org.