As families across Queensland gear up for the Easter holidays, a concerning trend has emerged from the Queensland Children’s Hospital (QCH), casting a spotlight on the safety of one of camping’s most cherished traditions: the campfire.
In 2023, QCH treated 88 children for serious burns related to campfires, coals, or firepits, highlighting a significant public health issue as the peak camping season approaches.
This year’s figures not only reflect an increase in such incidents but also underline the vulnerability of toddlers up to four years old, who accounted for more than 60% of the cases.
These startling statistics have prompted Children’s Health Queensland to issue a reminder about the critical importance of campfire safety, especially during the bustling Easter holiday period.
Professor Roy Kimble, QCH’s Director of Burns and Trauma, expressed concern over the preventable nature of many of these incidents, as per a media release by the Queensland Government.
“In 2023, the number of campfire burns we treated had increased by almost 63% from 2019,” he noted, emphasizing the need for greater caution and awareness among campers.
Amid these developments, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Director of Regional Operations, Matthew Bulow, provided practical advice for safe campfire management.
Bulow advocated for the use of organic materials for lighting fires and stressed the importance of extinguishing fires with water, warning against the common yet dangerous practice of burying campfires with sand or dirt, which can trap heat and create hidden hazards.
This guidance is particularly crucial given that most campfire burn injuries treated at QCH were the result of contact with remnants of fires thought to be extinguished. Bulow’s tips serve as a vital reminder of the simple steps that can prevent such accidents.
Moreover, supervision is key. The emphasis on never leaving children unsupervised near a campfire cannot be overstated, as vigilance can drastically reduce the risk of burn injuries.
In the unfortunate event of a burn, the immediate response can significantly impact the injury’s severity. Professor Kimble recommends placing the injured area under cool running water for 20 minutes and promptly seeking medical attention, cautioning against the use of ice, oil, butter, or ointments, which can further damage the skin.
As the camping season draws near, these warnings and guidelines offer an essential blueprint for families to enjoy the great outdoors safely. With proper preparation, awareness, and adherence to safety protocols, campers can ensure their holiday memories are filled with joy rather than trips to the emergency room.
For more detailed information on maintaining fire safety in outdoor settings, visitors are encouraged to consult resources provided by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, available on their website. This Easter, let’s commit to making campfire safety a top priority, safeguarding our children and ensuring a burn-free holiday season.