How To

First Aid for Burns

Steps to follow:

1. Remove the patient from danger
2. Cool the burnt area
3. Cover the burn
4. Seek medical attention

1. Remove the patient from danger:

Check for signs of danger. If you are sure you are not placing yourself in danger, remove the patient from the source of the burn: turn off the gas, pull them clear of the fire, roll them on the ground to extinguish flames if their clothing is alight. Remove the patient from further contact with chemicals.

2. Cool the burnt area:

Hold the burn under cool, gently running water for at least 20 minutes. Whilst irrigating the burn site, gently remove clothing from the affected area. Do not attempt to remove any clothing or jewellery that is sticking to the burn.

3. Cover the burn:

After irrigation, cover the affected area with a sterile, non-sticking dressing. If you don't have access to a dressing, use a clean, smooth cloth or cling film (cling wrap).

4. Seek medical attention:

Seek medical attention. For severe burns, call an ambulance- do not move the patient. Raise the burn, if a limb is affected, to reduce swelling.

Calm and re-assure the patient until medical help arrives.