Another Challenge NOT Worth Participating In: The “Fire Challenge”

Recently a new challenge not worth partaking in has been making the rounds on social media called the “fire challenge”. While this challenge is not technically new, since it dates back to 2014, it is starting to make its rounds again.

The challenge consists of individuals pouring a small amount of rubbing alcohol on their bodies and then lighting it on fire, all the while filming the entire event to share on social media channels. Once this happens, the idea is to then quickly extinguish the flames with water.

In late August, a 12-year-old girl from Detroit attempted this challenge and landed herself in the intensive care unit. She lost control of the fire and became engulfed in flames, leaving her with second and third-degree burns covering almost half of her body. She will need multiple surgeries to recover!  This is why the Texas Poison Control Network is urging teens not to participate in this challenge.

This is a dangerous challenge that can cause lifelong effects. Nothing is worth trying to get more followers on social media. Please think safety first!

 

How to Treat a Thermal Burn

Here are some things you can do at home that can help alleviate pain, discomfort and healing for thermal burns!

·         If you are on fire in any way, put the fire out with water, a fire extinguisher, or with a blanket/tarp.   If your clothes caught fire, remove them immediately.

·         Run affected area under cool water or immerse the burned area in cool water.

·         Cover the area with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth. It is best not to apply ointments due to the possibility of infections.

·         To treat pain, take an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen.  Make sure you follow the dosing chart on the medication.

·         If you see signs of redness, swelling, oozing, get a fever or the pain increases, seek immediate medical attention.  Contact poison control for additional information at 1-800-222-1222 or visit our website at www.poisoncontrol.org.