Burn Concerns & Treatment
Extreme heat, such as flames, hot liquids, hot metal, flash explosions and the sun's radiation can cause burn injuries. Chemicals, such as acid lye and bleach are only some of the popular chemicals that can cause a burn. Many burns may be deeper than they appear and require immediate medical attention. Here's a guideline for treating minor burns.
- Stop the Burning by removing the heat.
- Do not apply ointments, grease or butter. They may cause infections due to their oil base and provoke deeper injury.
- Pour cool running water over burn. Pour water over burned area for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stop, Drop, and Roll if your clothes catch fire, smothering the flames.
- Don't Run. Running makes the burn injury worse.
- Remove all jewelry, belts, tight clothing from burned area. Swelling of burned area occurs immediately.
- Remove all burned clothing. Clothing may retain heat and cause deeper injuries. If clothes adhere to skin, cut or tear around adherent area.
- For minor burn injuries, use an antiseptic spray to relieve and prevent infection. Cover with a clean, dry dressing. Wash daily with soap and water and change dressing.
- If wound begins to drain excessively or has a foul odor seek immediate medical attention. You may have an infection.
- For burns larger than a fist, cool the area as suggested above, cover with a dry clean dressing, and then seek medical attention immediately.
- If you are assisting someone with burns caused by electricity, do not touch victim if s/he is still in touch with the source of electricity.
- Dial 911 for emergency assistance.
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