First Aid for Burns

First Aid should ideally be performed within twenty minutes of burning yourself

Stop the burning as soon as possible, for example by dousing the flames or removing the person from the area

Do not put yourself at risk

Remove any clothing that surrounds the burn.

Do not attempt to remove clothing if it is stuck to the skin. You should leave this for medical staff to remove.

Do not pull or tug at clothing which is stuck to the skin as can cause further complications.

Remove any jewellery which is near the burn site. But only do this if you can safely remove it without causing any damage to the burn.

Cool the burn down immediately. You should place the affected area in cool water or under a gently running cold tap for at 10 to 30 minutes.

Never place a child in a bath full of cold water. This can cause them to go into shock and other complications.

You should not use any ointment or cream on the burn. And never use butter, oil, spray or any other household medicine.

Do not use ice

Keep the person warm by using a blanket or layers of clothing.

Avoid putting these directly on the burn

Cover the burn with cling film as a layer over the burn

Avoid wrapping it around the limb

 Do not apply to the face

 Seek medical help, if an emergency call 999, if a minor burn call 111.

Never burst or pop any blisters on a burn, as this can lead to an infection.

Most small burns will heal themselves. Burns can be left uncovered unless they are in a place where it is difficult to keep clean. Use a non-adhesive (non-sticky) dressing for temporary coverage if you need to cover a burn or scald.

If you have not had a full course of tetanus immunisation or if your boosters are not up to date contact your GP.

For further information, visit:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds

www.britishburnassociation.org

First Aid for Burns