Burn Prevention for Older Adults

The most common causes of burns are scalds from hot liquids and steam, building fires and flammable liquids and gases that ignite, but they may be caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, sunlight or radiation. Inhalation injury, caused by breathing in smoke, is often a greater concern than visible damage to our bodies. What steps can we take to prevent burns in our own homes, where many of us cook over open flames and wash and bathe with hot water? What about the hot cup of tea that spills? What about candles? In case of a fire, how can we most safely evacuate from burning structures? If we do sustain a burn, how do we best help that wound heal, especially as we age?

John Case, burn outreach and disaster coordinator at the Weill Cornell Medicine Burn Center, will answer these questions and more. Mr. Case has vast, diverse experience as a forest firefighter, 911 operator, watch commander and emergency department trauma nurse, all furthering his hands-on knowledge of emergency management in the sectors of public and private enterprise and health care.

RSVP is required for admission.