Man Survives Life-Threatening Burns After Fall in Phoenix Heat

A 72-year-old man from Phoenix, Arizona, is sharing his harrowing experience of suffering third-degree burns after a fall in extreme heat. Robert Woolley fell while checking his backyard pool, resulting in severe injuries that highlight the dangers posed by soaring temperatures.

Woolley’s incident occurred two years ago when he tripped on a patio slab. “I got distracted by birds. I tripped on a patio slab and I started to go down,” he recalled. As he reached out to catch himself, he was shocked by the intense heat of the rocks. “Reflexively, I picked my hand back up and then I went all the way down,” he said. This seemingly routine check quickly transformed into a life-threatening situation.

The consequences were dire. Woolley suffered third-degree burns covering approximately 20% of his body. He described the painful aftermath, saying, “The skin peeled off like an onion,” revealing layers that resembled “raw hamburger.” Despite the severity of his injuries, he managed to reach his back door and call for help.

Dr. Kevin Foster, Director of Burn Services at the Arizona Burn Center, noted that contact burns have become increasingly common as temperatures rise. “Above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, we start seeing problems, and then once we get above 110, we really see big problems,” he explained. This trend underscores the urgent need for caution as summer temperatures soar.

Woolley’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that extreme heat can pose. “If my wife had not been home, and she wouldn’t have heard me, I would’ve died on my back patio. And I know that,” he reflected. The incident has left him with lasting scars, both physical and emotional, but it has also given him a new appreciation for life.

As the summer months approach, residents in Phoenix and other regions experiencing extreme heat are urged to take precautions to avoid similar accidents. Dr. Foster’s insights emphasize the importance of awareness and preparedness as temperatures continue to climb.