Burn Treatment Guide

Burn & Scald Treatment

Immediate first aid for thermal burns, scalds, and chemical burns.

Seek Emergency Help for Severe Burns

Call 911/112 for burns that are larger than the person's palm, affect the face/hands/feet/genitals, are deep (white or charred), or are caused by chemicals or electricity.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Stop the Burning Process

Remove the person from the heat source. Remove clothing and jewelry near the burn (unless stuck to the skin). For chemical burns, brush off dry chemicals first, then rinse.

2

Cool the Burn

Hold the burned area under cool (not cold) running water for at least 20 minutes. This is the single most important first aid step for burns.

3

Cover the Burn

After cooling, cover the burn loosely with a sterile non-stick bandage or clean cling wrap. This protects the wound from infection.

4

Manage Pain

Take over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen or paracetamol). Keep the burned area elevated if possible to reduce swelling.

5

Watch for Signs of Shock

For large burns, watch for pale skin, weakness, rapid heartbeat, or shallow breathing. Keep the person warm and elevate their legs.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's

  • Cool with running water for at least 20 minutes
  • Cover loosely with sterile bandage or cling wrap
  • Take OTC pain relief as needed
  • Seek medical help for serious burns

Don'ts

  • Don't use ice, ice water, or very cold water
  • Don't apply butter, toothpaste, or home remedies
  • Don't pop blisters — they protect the wound
  • Don't remove clothing stuck to the burn

Aftercare

Keep the burn clean and change dressings daily. Apply prescribed antibiotic cream.
Minor burns heal in 1–3 weeks. Severe burns may require skin grafts and extended rehabilitation.
Protect healed burn scars from sun exposure for at least a year to prevent discoloration.