Firefighters were called at 2:14 a.m. to a garage fire around the 800 block of South Flower Street in Santa Ana on Saturday morning after getting reports about a burn victim, according to the OCFA.
The fire crews quickly contained the fire to the modified detached garage, preventing it from spreading to the house.
Firefighter paramedics treated an adult male with severe burns who had escaped through a door that quick-acting SAPD police officers had forced open before the fire crews arrival.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The victim, whose identity was not released, was in critical condition at the scene. He was hospitalized but his current condition is not known.
Second and third-degree burns can have serious repercussions, both immediate and long-term. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:
Second-Degree Burns
- Immediate Effects: These burns affect both the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. They often appear red, swollen, and blistered, and can be extremely painful1.
- Healing and Scarring: Healing can take several weeks, and deep second-degree burns may result in scarring.
- Infection Risk: There’s a significant risk of infection due to the damage to the skin’s protective barrier.
Third-Degree Burns
- Immediate Effects: These burns extend through all layers of the skin and may affect underlying tissues. The skin can appear white, black, or leathery, and because nerve endings are destroyed, there might be little to no pain initially.
- Healing and Scarring: Third-degree burns often require skin grafts and can lead to severe scarring and contractures (tightening of the skin that can restrict movement).
- Complications: These burns can lead to complications such as infections, fluid loss, and hypothermia.
Both types of burns require prompt medical attention to manage pain, prevent infection, and support healing. Long-term care may include physical therapy, reconstructive surgery, and psychological support.
