Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is supporting National Burn Awareness Day on 16 October by displaying vital first aid advice on its fire engines and service vehicles.
The simple, impactful visuals emphasise the importance of running cool water over a burn for 20 minutes, a critical step in reducing injury severity. The initiative, in partnership with Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (QVH) and Children’s Burns Trust, has also gained support from other fire services across the region.
Chief Fire Officer Dan Quin said: “As first responders, we often witness first-hand the devastating impact burns can have, especially in the home. By displaying these important awareness visuals on our vehicles, we aim to remind the public and our crews of the difference that 20 minutes of cool running water can make in treating burns.
“This simple but critical first aid step can significantly reduce injury severity before our medical colleagues arrive, ensuring that every second counts in preventing lifelong harm.”
Paul Drake, Consultant Plastic Surgeon and Burns Lead at QVH, said: “Prevention really is the key to reducing the number and severity of injuries burns units like ours see. Keep hot drinks away from children, keep pans away from the front of the cooker, and always check the water bottle you are using is less than two years old. If it isn’t, get a new one.
“Accidents do happen and when they do, the right first aid, given at the right time, can really make a difference. In fact, applying cool running water for at least 20 minutes immediately can significantly reduce the extent of the injury.”
Above: Krissie Stiles (Children’s Burns Trust), meeting Chief Fire Officer Dan Quin from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service
Surrey News 
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