Remove the Source of the Burn
- Electrical - Remove the source of energy before approaching the person
- Chemical - Rinse with water for at least 20 minutes (do not submerge the area into water and do not use strong streams of water)
(NOTE: very few chemicals, such as dry lime, should not be removed with water. These should be brushed off. Consult the Safety Data Sheet for instructions.)
- Heat - Remove the source of heat. The burnt skin is a source of heat to other tissue so use cool water to cool the burned area.
Determine the Severity of the Burn
A major burn requires medical attention. Call 911.
Major burns:
A major burn requires medical attention.
Call 911
- Are deep
- Cause the skin to be dry and leathery
- May appear charred or have patches of white, brown, or black
- Involve the airway including face, throat, and neck
A minor burn that doesn't require emergency care may involve:
First Aid for Major Burns
- Call 911
- Remove the source of the burn
- Monitor breathing. Begin CPR if breathing ceases
- Remove jewelry, belts, and other restrictive items
- use a steady stream of clean water to cool and clean the burn
- If medical help is nearby, continue cleaning with cool water until medical attention arrives. Covering the burn may cause the person painful debris removal.
- If medical help is delayed, cover the burn with a dry, nonstick sterile or clean dressing.
- DO NOT add butter or other substances that contain petroleum products (such as petroleum jelly)
First Aid for Minor Burns
- Remove the source of the burn
- Remove jewelry and other tight items from the burned area. DO NOT remove anything sticking to the burned area. Use bandage scissors to cut around the area if necessary.
- Do not break blisters
- Use a steady stream of clean water to cool and clean the burn
- Apply burn cream or lotion from the first aid kit. DO NOT use an ointment, butter, or anything that is petroleum based
- Bandage the burn with a dry, nonstick sterile or clean dressing
Use a steady stream of clean water to cool and clean the burn. Exception: For chemical burns, consult the Safety Data Sheet to determine best treatment.