Burns sustained whilst priming the carburetor: an Australian perspective

Abstract

Priming the carburetor is a method that is still commonly practiced amongst trained, amateur, and backyard mechanics. This article aims to look at the data available between 1996 and 2004 in two burns units in South Australia and Queensland. The authors were interested in the number of patients admitted with burns related to the activity of priming the carburetor, the TBSA percentage of burns, and areas affected. It also gives numbers of intensive care unit admissions and the number who underwent surgery for the management of the burns. The results showed that between the two centers, 48 patients were admitted following burns as a result of priming the carburetor. The activity carried no mortality during the time period of study but caused significant morbidity. Through the media, the authors are embarking on an educational program to reduce the risk of such burn injuries from this dangerous practice.