Burn disasters in the middle belt of Ghana from 2007 to 2008 and their consequences

Abstract Aim To study the survival and mortality trends in four fire disasters in the middle belt of Ghana from 2007 to 2008 and to explore measures that could minimize the risk of future disasters. Methods Data were collected from clinical records from the Burns Intensive Care Unit and the Casualty Unit of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana and from the various disaster sites and the Ghana Police Service. Results A total of 212 were injured from four burn disasters; 37 (17%) died on the spot; 175 (83%) reported to the Casualty Unit out of which 46 (26%) were admitted. The victims admitted had mean age 24.6 years with male to female ratio 2.3:1; 25 (54%) of the admitted victims died. The average burned surface area of the admitted victims was 63%, with a mean survival rate of 46%. Statistical analysis for mortality when the surface area of the burn was >70% was 0.0005 ( P -value). Conclusion The four petrol-related fire disasters showed variable mortality rates. Death and severe disability of victims of future disasters can be avoided if intensive road accident preventive measures and massive public education are encouraged.