To treat a burn, follow these main steps:
- Stop the burning process immediately to prevent further injury.
- Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm running water for about 10 to 20 minutes. Do not use ice, iced water, or greasy substances like butter.
- Remove any clothing or jewelry near the burn, but do not try to remove anything stuck to the burned skin.
- Keep the burnt area covered with cling film or a clean, nonstick sterile bandage to protect it and reduce pain.
- Raise the affected area if possible to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage pain.
- Keep yourself or the injured person warm to prevent hypothermia, especially for large burns.
Never break blisters if they form, and do not apply ointments, creams, or grease unless recommended by a healthcare professional. If the burn is large, deep, or on sensitive areas like the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or if the victim is very young or elderly, seek medical help immediately. For minor burns, after cooling, clean gently, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or aloe vera, and keep the burn protected until it heals. These guidelines are effective for first-degree and minor burns. More severe burns may require professional medical treatment including wound care, antibiotics, tetanus shots, or surgery.
