Ask the Duke Expert: How to Stay Safe From Summer Burns

Burn expert Ernest Grant shares practical advice to help people stay safe and respond quickly if an injury occurs.

This is a summary of a story on School of Nursing.

As beach and fireworks season approaches with the 4th of July weekend, Associate Professor of Nursing Ernest Grant answers these common questions:

What are the most common burn risks in summer, and how can people prevent them?
Summer burns most often come from grills, hot playground equipment, and fireworks. Keep kids at least 10 feet away from grills, check playground surfaces for heat, and leave fireworks to professionals or use extreme caution.

What grilling safety practices help reduce burn risk?
Check your grill for leaks, use proper lighting methods, and never rush ignition. If using gas, test connections with soapy water and let gas dissipate before relighting; for charcoal, never use gasoline and allow lighter fluid to settle before igniting.

Associate Professor of Nursing Ernest Grant

How can people prevent sunburn and know when it’s serious?
Use SPF 30+, limit sun exposure, and watch for warning signs like very red, hot skin or dehydration. Reapply sunscreen often – especially after swimming or sweating – and seek medical care if symptoms of heat exhaustion or severe burn appear.

What first-aid supplies should be kept for minor burns at home?
Keep essentials like non-stick gauze, bandages, aloe or moisturizer, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, gloves, and clean water on hand. Always cool the burn with cool running water first, then cover it with a clean dressing and monitor for signs of infection or worsening.

For more information on burns and summer safety, read the full interview with Grant on School of Nursing.