Burnt by Fire: A True Story and Burn Awareness Tips
- Johanita Jordaan
- May 14
- 5 min read
For accountability purposes: This article was written by Johanita Jordaan - 14 May 2025 - during burns awareness week.
Here are two true stories about being burned by fire, followed by some burn awareness tips to assist should you ever be faced with this situation.
Burnt by Fire True Story 1: A Braai Accident
More than 10 years ago, I witnessed my father burn from an accident at a braai. In those moments, you can barely think, but we were blessed with many adults jumping in and grabbing a task. My mom had a hosepipe in hand and kept the water on my dad; family members grabbed the children and got them to safety. Neighbours came running in and moved the vehicles as parts of the flames were igniting under our cars. Medics were on scene within minutes, and my father received excellent care. After his healing period, you could not even see that he had been burned. It felt like a miracle, and as a family, we were grateful for the outcome. Some of our children had to go for counselling afterwards to assist with the post-trauma, but today everybody is fine and flourishing. They are no longer afraid of fire but remain cautious as they should be.
Burnt by Fire True Story 2: A Vehicle Fire
On Sunday, 27 August 2023, while getting ready for church, I noticed a commotion outside my apartment. A blue VW Polo was on fire, and a mother was desperately trying to save her two young children trapped inside. The sight of the enormous dark cloud created by the fire was terrifying, and my heart sank as I realised something terrible was happening.
The danger of fire was evident as strong men tried to kick open the back windows and use fire extinguishers against the windows, but their efforts seemed futile. The flames were raging, and even from a distance, the heat and fear were palpable. The brave individuals closest to the flames displayed incredible composure, but the situation was dire.
After about 45 seconds, the civilians managed to open the boot of the vehicle, but the flames raged through the back, making it impossible to pull the children out from there. The children's screams filled the air, and then there was silence, which was even more haunting. The trauma of witnessing this event was overwhelming, and I felt helpless as I watched from my window.
Eventually, the civilians broke the backside windows and rescued the 4-year-old girl and the 2-year-old boy, both badly burnt. The medics arrived and took them to the burn unit. Though the children survived, their recovery has been challenging. You can follow their journey on Facebook [Bid vir Verwey Wonderwerk Burn Heroes].
Tips for Fire Safety and Burn Awareness
Accidents happen, and they can happen to anyone. This is why it is so important to try to be as prepared as possible and to do whatever you can to prevent or at least have some knowledge to assist yourself, your family, or even your neighbour when faced with such a situation.
What should you do when there is a fire?
In a home:
Keep calm and evacuate everyone immediately.
Use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small and manageable.
Call emergency services as soon as possible.
Do not use water on electrical fires.
In a vehicle:
Stop the vehicle and turn off the engine.
Evacuate all passengers immediately.
Use a fire extinguisher if available.
Move away from the vehicle and call emergency services.
What you shouldn't do when there is a fire?
Do not try to fight a large fire yourself.
Do not use elevators during a fire evacuation.
Do not return to the burning building or vehicle for belongings.
What should you do when you are on fire?
Stop, drop, and roll to extinguish the flames.
Cover your face with your hands to protect it.
Seek medical attention immediately.
What should you do when you are burned?
First-degree burns:
Cool the burn by immersing it in cool tap water or applying cold, wet compresses for about 10 minutes1.
Apply petroleum jelly two to three times daily1.
Cover the burn with a nonstick, sterile bandage1.
Consider taking over-the-counter pain medication1.
Protect the area from the sun to minimize scarring1.
Second-degree burns:
Third-degree burns:
Burn Awareness Tips
Keep an object that can break a window and cut a safety belt in case there is a fire in your vehicle: Having a tool like a safety hammer can save lives by allowing you to quickly escape from a burning vehicle. These tools are designed to break tempered glass and cut through seat belts, which can be crucial in an emergency6.
If you cannot get out of a house, go into the bathroom and seal gaps: If you are trapped, go into the bathroom and close the door. Seal gaps around the door with wet towels or clothing to prevent smoke from entering. This can buy you time and reduce smoke inhalation while you wait for rescue7.
Do not run LPG gas heaters or LPG gas stoves close to electrical plugs: LPG gas is highly flammable and using it near electrical plugs increases the risk of fire due to potential sparks or electrical malfunctions8. Always ensure a safe distance between gas appliances and electrical outlets.
Practice fire escape plans with your family in the home or in the car: Regularly practicing fire escape plans ensures that everyone knows what to do in an emergency. This reduces panic and confusion, helping everyone to evacuate quickly and safely9.
If oil ignites, use a cloth or sand to quench the fire, only use water if the fire is small and manageable: Water can cause oil fires to spread due to the rapid expansion of steam. Instead, smother the fire with a damp cloth or use sand to extinguish it. Only use water if the fire is very small and you are confident it won't spread10.
Remember, you can try your best, but only professionals really know and have the tools to assist. Know the emergency numbers; don't try to be a hero. Life is not a Hollywood movie, and prevention is better than cure.
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