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Burn Treatment
First aid for burns
Emergency Situation
Always call 911 first in life-threatening emergencies. This guide supplements professional training but doesn't replace it.
Stop the Burning
Remove person from heat source. If clothing is on fire, use stop-drop-roll. Remove hot or burned clothing (unless stuck to skin).
Assess Severity
1st degree (red, no blisters): Treat at home. 2nd degree (blisters, very painful): See doctor for large areas. 3rd degree (white/charred, numbness): Call 911 immediately!
Cool the Burn
Run cool (not ice cold) water over burn for 10-20 minutes. Do NOT use ice - it can cause more damage. For chemical burns, flush with water for at least 20 minutes.
Remove Jewelry/Tight Items
Remove rings, watches, belts, tight clothing near burned area before swelling starts. Don't remove anything stuck to the burn.
Protect the Burn
Cover loosely with sterile, non-stick bandage or clean cloth. Don't apply butter, oil, or ointments to serious burns.
Minor Burns Only
For minor burns: After cooling, apply aloe vera or antibiotic ointment. Cover with non-stick bandage. Give over-the-counter pain reliever.
Watch for Infection
Signs: Increased pain, redness, swelling, fever, pus. Seek medical care if these develop.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Burns larger than 3 inches, on face/hands/feet/groin/major joints, 3rd degree, caused by chemicals/electricity, or victim is infant/elderly.