What to do if someone gets burned?

Burns can range from minor to life-threatening. First aid depends on the severity of the burn, but the goal is always to stop the burning process, cool the injury, relieve pain, and prevent infection or shock.

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Step 1: Ensure Safety

• Remove the person from the source of the burn (fire, hot liquid, electricity, chemicals).

• Do not put yourself at risk.

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Step 2: Assess the Burn

• First-degree (superficial): Red, painful, no blisters (like mild sunburn).

• Second-degree (partial-thickness): Red, blistered, very painful.

• Third-degree (full-thickness): Charred, white, or leathery skin; may be painless due to nerve damage.

• Burns to the face, hands, feet, genitals, major joints, or large areas are considered serious.

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Step 3: Cool the Burn

• For minor and moderate burns:

  • Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the area for at least 10–20 minutes.

  • If water is not available, use a cool compress.

• Do not use ice or very cold water, as this can damage tissue.

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Step 4: Remove Constrictions

• Gently remove rings, watches, belts, or tight clothing before swelling begins.

• Do not peel away clothing stuck to the burn—cut around it instead.

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Step 5: Protect the Burn

• Cover with a sterile, non-fluffy dressing or a clean plastic wrap (cling film).

• Do not apply butter, oils, toothpaste, or creams—they trap heat and can cause infection.

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Step 6: Relieve Pain

• If conscious and able to swallow, give an over-the-counter pain reliever:

  • Paracetamol (acetaminophen)

  • Ibuprofen

  • Follow dosing instructions on the package.

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Step 7: Watch for Shock

• Lay the person down if possible.

• Cover with a clean sheet or blanket to keep warm (avoid covering the burn itself too tightly).

• Look for pale, clammy skin, weakness, rapid pulse, or fainting.

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Step 8: Seek Emergency Help Immediately if:

• The burn is larger than the size of the victim’s palm.

• The burn is deep, charred, or painless.

• It involves the face, airway, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints.

• It results from chemicals, electricity, or explosion.

• The person shows signs of difficulty breathing or shock.

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Do Not

• Do not pop blisters.

• Do not apply adhesive dressings directly to the burn.

• Do not immerse large severe burns in water (risk of hypothermia).