State Senator Bob Peterson (R-Washington Court House) testified today before the Health committee in support of his bill to establish "Ohio Burn Awareness Week." The first full week of February would become a time of remembrance for all who have lost their lives or been injured as a result of a burn.
Few injuries are more painful than a severe burn. According to the CDC, more than one million Americans are burned badly enough to require medical attention every year. As many as 10,000 of those victims die from their injuries.
"The severity of this matter was brought to my attention by a student in Teays Valley," said Peterson. "He spent 25 days in the hospital relearning how to walk after a bad car wreck. It was his idea to dedicate a week to remember the trauma suffered by burn victims and their loved ones, and to show our support for them."
Burns and fires are the fourth most common cause of accidental death in children and adults, according to the CDC. Most burn injuries occur at home or work. Having a smoke alarm in place cuts your chance of death in half.
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