King Abdulaziz Medical City in Jeddah recently launched an awareness campaign on how to prevent and treat burn injuries.

Mansoor Al-Jundi, executive director of medical services at the National Guard Hospital in the western region, said every member of society has a responsibility to prevent fires.

There were professionals from medical, clinical, physical therapy, wound care, primary health care, nutrition and infection control departments present. The other attendees included officials from Saudi Aramco, Saudi Electricity Company, Social Affairs Ministry, Civil Defense, and the National Family Safety Association.

The participants handed out brochures and banners and conducted information sessions on treating cases of burns. There was also a questionnaire and a competition to create further community awareness.

Mamoon Dagistani, chairman of the organizing committee and plastic surgery consultant, said studies indicate that most accidents occur at homes because of ignorance. He said it was important for people to know what dangers lurk in homes to prevent accidents.

He said the campaign would be taken to people's homes, schools, hotels and businesses. Professionals would provide information on how to deal with psychological scarring that can occur after accidents including anger, guilt, poor concentration, social withdrawal and poor interest in life.

He said all homes and businesses should have fire extinguishers in prominent places, and everyone should know how to use them. There should also be smoke detectors installed in kitchens and corridors.