ST. GEORGE — Southern Utahns are being reminded to “stop, drop and roll” after a 12-year-old boy was burned across approximately 8% of his body on Saturday.
A boy was burned on approximately 8% of his body after introducing gasoline to a campfire, Hurricane, Utah, Feb. 10, 2024 | Photo courtesy of the Hurricane Valley Fire District, St. George News
Shortly before 9 p.m., the boy reportedly introduced gasoline to a campfire in a backyard, catching fire himself, Hurricane Valley Fire Captain Tyler Ames told St. George News. After his shoe ignited, he “kind of panicked,” running through the yard and starting additional fires.
“That’s why we are stressing: If you ever catch on fire or your clothes catch on fire, we would advise you to stop, drop and roll,” he said. “You want to cover your face and roll around to try to get that fire smothered.”
For those unable to get down on the ground, Ames suggested using a blanket or an article of clothing to smother the flames. In the boy’s case, other people nearby used a hose to extinguish the fire.
The boy received second and third-degree burns across approximately 8% of his body, primarily on his leg and foot. He was transported to the Hurricane Emergency Facility and later moved to a burn unit in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Ames said he is not sure of the child’s current condition but hopes to be in contact with the family later this week.
To avoid similar incidents, Ames said gasoline and other flammable liquids should never be used on an active fire. Doing so can cause the flames to flare up quickly, increasing the risk of burns. The liquid can leak onto other surfaces, like clothing, and, in some cases, the fumes can also ignite.
Parents interested in teaching their kids fire safety can call or visit a Hurricane Valley Fire Station, where crew members can share safety tips and educational materials, Ames said, adding that most departments across Washington County would likely welcome such visits.
Photo Gallery
A boy was burned on approximately 8% of his body after introducing gasoline to a campfire, Hurricane, Utah, Feb. 10, 2024 | Photo courtesy of the Hurricane Valley Fire District, St. George News
A boy was burned on approximately 8% of his body after introducing gasoline to a campfire, Hurricane, Utah, Feb. 10, 2024 | Photo courtesy of the Hurricane Valley Fire District, St. George News
A boy was burned on approximately 8% of his body after introducing gasoline to a campfire, Hurricane, Utah, Feb. 10, 2024 | Photo courtesy of the Hurricane Valley Fire District, St. George News
A boy was burned on approximately 8% of his body after introducing gasoline to a campfire, Hurricane, Utah, Feb. 10, 2024 | Photo courtesy of the Hurricane Valley Fire District, St. George News
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