Thermal
Burns
Thermal burns are caused by contact with open
flames, hot liquids, hot surfaces and other sources of high heat.
- Stop the burning. Remove the victim from the heat source.
- Cool the burn with cold water.
- Check breathing. Stop bleeding.
- Cover the burn with a sterile pad or clean sheet.
- Maintain body temperature and take victim to the nearest
medical facility.
Note: Do not apply oils, sprays or
ointments to a serious burn.
- Sunburn may also be cooled with water. If the sunburn is
severe or is very extensive, seek medical attention.
Chemical Burns
- Flush skin with water for at least 20 minutes.
- Remove contaminated clothing, but avoid spreading the chemical
to unaffected areas.
- If the victim's eyes are involved, flush the eyes continuously
with water until medical help is obtained. Remove contact lenses.
- Follow steps 3 to 5 for thermal burns (check breathing, stop
bleeding, cover burn, maintain body temperature and transport to medical facility).
Note: In cases involving some powdered or dry
chemicals, it may not be appropriate to flush with water. If a dry chemical is involved,
carefully brush the chemical off the skin and check the package or package insert for
emergency information.
Electrical Burns
- Pull the plug at the wall or shut off the current. Do not
touch the victim while they are in contact with electricity.
- Follow steps 3 to 5 for thermal burns.
- All electrical injuries should receive medical attention.
- In homes where young children are present, consider using
"tamperproof" or child-proof receptacles or receptacle covers.
- Limit your use of extension cords.
General considerations
- Remove rings, belts, shoes and tight clothing before swelling
occurs.
- If clothing is stuck to the burn, DO NOT REMOVE IT. Carefully
cut around the stuck fabric to remove loose fabric.
- Burns on the face, hands and feet should always be considered
serious and should receive prompt medical attention.
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