First Aid for Burns

Burns should be treated according to degree. Don't apply ointment, cream, oil, spray, or any household remedy, as this will interfere with proper healing. Don't disturb blisters or dead skin and don't allow a burn to become contaminated. Avoid coughing or breathing on the burn.

First-degree burns

Sunburn is often a first-degree burn. Only the outside layer of skin is affected. Minor kitchen burns and burns and scalds that redden the skin are also first-degree burns. Redness and mild swelling will be visible but there will be no blisters.

How to treat first-degree burns

Run cold water over the burn for 10 minutes. Use a clean, cold, wet towel to help reduce the pain. Pat the burn dry with a sterile cloth and cover with a dry, sterile, non adhesive dressing. Protect the burn from pressure or friction. Get medical attention if the burn involves the airway, eyes, face, hands, feet, or genitals.

Second-degree burns

Second degree burns injure layers of skin beneath the immediate surface of the body. These burns include deep sunburns, hot-liquid or hot-food burns, and flash burns from gasoline. Redness of the skin, blisters, swelling that can last for days, and oozing will be apparent. The victim will be in major pain.

How to treat second-degree burns

If the victim shows signs of shock, or if the victim has breathed in hot gases, call 911. Try to calm the victim as he or she will be in a lot of pain. If the clothing comes of easily, remove it from the burned area. Don't disturb the burn. Remove any rings or constricting items, as there will be swelling. If the burned area is smaller than the victim's chest, cover it with a clean, cold, wet towel to reduce the effects of the burn. If the area is larger than the victim's chest, don't use towels. Cover the burn with dry, sterile, non adhesive dressing to avoid contamination. Separate fingers and toes that have been burned with dry, sterile non adhesive dressings. Elevate the burned area and protect it from friction and pressure. Take steps to prevent shock and stay with the victim until medical help arrives.

Third-degree burns

Third-degree burns destroy all layers of the skin. They are caused by fire or prolonged contact with hot substances. Electrical burns are usually third-degree burns. The burned area will look white or charred and skin will be destroyed. Pain is minimal because nerve endings have been destroyed.

How to treat third-degree burns

Third-degree burns require immediate medical attention. Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink. Do not apply cold compresses or immerse the burn in cold water. Check airways, breathing, and circulation. Remove clothing from the burned area only if it comes off easily but do not disturb the burn. Keep a close watch on the airways, breathing, and circulation until medical help arrives.