Be Prepared: Basic First Aid Tips for Treating Burns

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Burns are a common injury that can occur at home, at work, or even while engaging in recreational activities. It is important to know how to provide basic first aid for burns, as this can help minimize pain, prevent infection, and promote faster healing. In this blog, we will discuss some basic first aid tips for treating burns.

Stop the Burning Process

The first thing you need to do is to stop the burning process. If the person is on fire, have them stop, drop, and roll to extinguish the flames. If it is a chemical burn, rinse the affected area with water for at least 20 minutes to flush out the chemical. If it is an electrical burn, turn off the power source before touching the person.

Cool the Burn

Once the burning process has been stopped, it is important to cool the burn. Run cool (not cold) water over the affected area for 10-20 minutes to reduce the temperature of the skin and relieve pain. Do not use ice or ice water, as this can cause further damage to the skin.

Remove Jewelry and Clothing

If the burn is on an area of the body with jewelry or clothing, remove these items as soon as possible. This is because these items can become tight and cause further damage as the skin swells.

Cover the Burn

After cooling the burn, cover the affected area with a sterile gauze or clean cloth. This will help prevent infection and keep the area clean.

Take Pain Medication

Burns can be very painful, so it is important to take over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by the label. 

Seek Medical Attention

If the burn is severe (covers a large area of the body, is deep, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or difficulty breathing), seek medical attention immediately. If the burn is mild, it should heal on its own within a few days to a week.

In conclusion, burns are a common injury that can be quite painful and even dangerous if not treated properly. By following these basic first aid tips, you can help minimize pain, prevent infection, and promote faster healing. Remember, if the burn is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical attention right away.