Background
Petrol burns are a major preventable cause of morbidity and mortality. These injuries are severe, with 7% of cases affecting at least 20% TBSA and 63% requiring grafting. In Australia, public holidays appear to be associated with an increase in burn admissions. However, no studies have directly investigated the incidence of petrol burns on public holidays.
The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between petrol burns and public holidays in Australia; and whether there are differences in the frequency, demographic profile, injury characteristics and hospital outcomes for adults sustaining burns on public holidays compared with non-holiday periods.
Methods
This was a retrospective cohort study of adults admitted to an Australian hospital with a petrol burn injury between 2010 and 2020, utilising data extracted from the BRANZ database.
Results
During the research period, over 500 patients presented nationwide with burns on public holidays. The incidence of petrol burns increased by 20% during public holidays, compared with non-holiday periods, with injuries occurring on 95% of all public holidays. Petrol burns occurring on public holidays were more severe, requiring a longer length of hospital stay and increased recovery time, compared with non-public holiday admissions.
Conclusion
These findings indicate a strong association between petrol burns and public holidays in Australia. This highlights the urgent need for public health interventions and education campaigns aimed at preventing the use of petrol on fires.