Is the burn or scald severe?

Is there significant pain, difficulty breathing and/or broken skin and visible wounds or blisters?

Yes: Severe burns and scalds require careful treatment and can cause shock in the patients. They will need hospital treatment.

What to do: lie the casualty down. Try to keep the burnt area off the ground. Call an ambulance. Douse the burn with lots of cold water for at least ten minutes. Do not overcool the wound as you might lower body temperature to a dangerous level. Remove any obstructions such as watches or burnt clothing (unless it is sticking to the burn). Cover the injury with a sterile dressing (a clean tea towel, sheet or cling film will suffice). Do not touch the burnt area, don’t burst blisters and don’t apply any lotions or ointments.

No: Minor burns and scalds often involve household equipment such as kettles and irons. They can often be treated effectively with first aid and will heal well.

What to do: pour cold water on to the injured part for at least ten minutes. If no water is available, use other cold liquids such as milk or canned drinks.

Remove obstructions (as above). Apply a sterile dressing or clingfilm to the area. Blisters may form a little later – never break them. If they burst of their own accord apply a nonadhesive dressing. Always seek medical advice for burns on children.

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