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15-Nov-2008
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Arch Hellen Med, 2008, 25(Supplement 1):34-39 REVIEW Message 5: Know the dangers of fire M.E. BÉNYI1, E.G. MANTI2 |
Injuries due to burns, fire and flames are one of the leading causes of injury and death among children and older people over the age of 65. Although the most severe outcome of burns is death, accounting for a large proportion of mortality rates in the European Union (EU), burns can also cause permanent physical and psychological disabilities. Thus, raising the public awareness about the relevant risk factors and informing people about proper ways to behave in fire situations may reduce the severity or even the incidence of burn injuries. This paper aims: (a) to describe the magnitude and the socio-economic burden of fire related injuries in the countries of the EU, (b) to outline underlying risk factors and (c) to present evidence based preventive practices that reduce the likelihood of injury due to fire. Some of these measures are therefore included in the European Code Against Injuries (ECAI) aiming to raise public awareness regarding injury prevention.
Key words: Accident, Burn, Ćuropean Code Against Injuries, Fire, Injury, Practice, Prevention, Scalds.
