Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust (LCH) is urging members of the public to take extra care ahead of Bonfire Night this Wednesday, 5 November.

Staff from the Trust’s NHS Walk In Centres are particularly urging parents to be vigilant in keeping themselves and their children safe in order to help prevent unnecessary injuries, such as burns and other firework related injuries.

Whilst it is hoped that no injuries occur this year, staff from the city’s five NHS Walk-in Centres are offering the following advice on the treatment of minor burn injuries at home:

• Cool the affected area with water for 10-30 minutes.
• Never use ice or greasy substances, such as butter.
• Cover the burn with a layer of cling film
• If required take painkillers, such as paracetamol
• If a blister forms, do not burst it.

However, more serious burns may require immediate medical attention at an NHS Walk-in Centre or at an A&E Department.

Those at greater risk of serious injury from burns are young children, especially those under the age of 5, since their skin is most sensitive to damage.

Jo Robertson, Clinical Nurse Manager at Smithdown Children’s NHS Walk In Centre explains,

“We want everyone to have fun and enjoy Bonfire Night this year, and to remind people of all ages to take care whilst they are celebrating and to be vigilant in ensuring that everyone stays safe.

“It’s especially important to encourage parents and children to remember that sparklers and fireworks are not toys and that the injuries they can cause can be life-changing, so please do be cautious with them.”

Some common facts about fireworks include:

• Sparklers can be up to five times hotter than cooking oil
• A rocket can reach speeds of up to 150 mph
• The majority of injuries happen at family or private parties
• The most common injuries occur to the hands, eyes and face
• Around half of all injuries happen to children under the age of 17

The Trust is reminding members of the public that there are five NHS Walk-In Centres situated across the city which can offer on-the-spot treatment for any minor accidents or injuries such as burns.

The Walk in Centres are located at:

• Liverpool City Centre NHS Walk in Centre (Mon to Fri 7am-10pm, weekends 9am-10pm)
• Smithdown Children’s NHS Walk in Centre (Mon to Fri 8am-8pm, weekends 10am-4pm)
• Old Swan NHS Walk in Centre (7am-10pm every day)
• South Liverpool NHS Walk In Centre (Mon to Fri 9am-9pm, weekends 9am-5pm)
• Litherland NHS Walk-in Centre (8am – 8pm every day)

For further information, go to the Liverpool Community Health website: http://www.liverpoolcommunityhealth.nhs.uk/health-services/walk-in-centres.htm

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