Evaluation of a community-based prevention program for domestic burns of young children in India.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to measure the effectiveness and utilization of the prevention program for domestic burn prevention for young children in Indore, India. Families with at least one child under 4 years of two low income communities and one middle/high income community were approached for this program. We conducted an experimental pilot study with a pre-post design between February and June 2009. The program consisted of an educational program in combination with the distribution of a barrier or playpen. The effectiveness and utilization of the intervention were measured by a baseline and follow-up questionnaire. A total of 34 families completed the baseline questionnaire as well as the follow-up. A significant decrease in burns was reported (p < 0.01), from a total of 18 burns before the intervention to 2 burns after the placement. Furthermore, the frequency of dangerous situations occurring in the house, decreased significantly as well (p < 0.01). The prevention program seems an effective method in the reduction of burns of young children. Additionally, most families were satisfied with the intervention and would like to use it for a longer period of time. However, a large study with multiple evaluation moments would be needed to provide evidence of the effectiveness of this prevention program.