At the bustling Ori-Ugba Market in Umuahia, Abia State, our team gathered to share life-saving lessons with 650 men and women on burn prevention and management. This outreach aimed to empower the community with knowledge about practices that predispose individuals to burns, their causes, prevention, and first-aid care. It was truly an outstanding success!
To maximise reach, the sessions were conducted at two strategic locations within the market. This strategy ensured that the sessions were accessible to as many people as possible while minimising disruption to traders who needed to return to their businesses. Informative pamphlets were distributed throughout the market, ensuring that those unable to attend the instructional sessions still received vital information.
Participants engaged in interactive discussions covering everyday risky practices, such as improper storage of flammable materials, unsafe cooking methods, and behaviours that increase burn risks. They also learned about common burn causes, from hot liquids to faulty electrical appliances, as well as prevention tips, including keeping children away from open flames and conducting regular gas cylinder checks. Essential first-aid steps were demonstrated, such as cooling the affected area with running water, covering it with a clean, non-stick cloth, and avoiding harmful remedies like raw egg or palm oil.
The participants expressed their gratitude for the effort to bring such essential knowledge to their local community. Their questions were answered, and prizes were awarded to those who demonstrated outstanding engagement and understanding of the topic.
