First Aid
Burns are classified in three stages based on their severity. Below are some basic first-aid guidelines to follow immediately after a burn. Any burn deeper than a sun burn should be evaluated by a physician. Remember, if clothing is on fire – stop, drop and roll.
First-degree
The least serious burns, in which the skin is usually red, with swelling and pain sometimes present.
- Cool the burn under cold running water for at least five minutes
- Do not use ice
- Do not use lards, butter or ointments
- Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage
- Take an over the counter pain reliever
Second-degree
The burns are deeper with blisters and severe pain.
- Cool the burn under cold running water for at least five minutes
- Do not use ice
- Do not break any blisters
- Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage
- Treat as a major burn and get medical help
Third-degree burns
The most serious burns are painless – they involve several layers of tissue damage and tissue may be charred black or appear dry and white.
- Dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance immediately
- Do not remove burnt clothing
- Do not immerse large, severe burns in cold water
- Check for circulation, breathing, coughing and movement; if no circulation, begin CPR
- Difficulty breathing may occur if smoke inhalation accompanies burn
- Elevate the burned body part above heart level, if possible
- Cover the burn with a clean, moist bandage or cloth
