Information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice and you always seek appropriate professional help or seek immediate medical attention for serious conditions. See full disclaimer here

🔥 First Aid for Burns and Scalds

Burns and scalds can happen anywhere — at home, at work, or outdoors.
They’re painful injuries that need quick, calm action to limit damage and reduce the risk of infection.

Here’s how to treat them safely and effectively.

All burns are treated the same way in first aid — cool the burn quickly and protect the area.

🩹 Step-by-Step: First Aid for Burns and Scalds

1️⃣ Cool the Burn Immediately

• Remove what is causing the burn, brush off powers

• Hold the affected area under cool running water for at least 20 minutes.

• If running water isn’t available, use a clean, cool liquid (like bottled water).

• Do not use ice, creams, or greasy substances — they can cause further damage.

If clothing is stuck to the burn, don’t pull it off — cool the area with the clothing in place.

2️⃣ Remove Tight Items

Gently remove rings, watches, or jewellery before swelling begins — but don’t remove clothing stuck to the burn.

3️⃣ Cover the Burn

Once cooled, cover the burn loosely with:

• Cling film (non-stick and sterile)

• A clean, non-fluffy cloth or sterile dressing
  Drape lengthwise, not around the limb — this avoids constriction if swelling occurs.

4️⃣ Relieve Pain

If you are at home,  Mild pain relief (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen) can help, following the packet instructions.
Avoid applying creams, lotions, toothpaste, or butter.

5️⃣ Monitor and Reassure

Keep the person warm and calm — burns can cause shock.
Always check for other injuries, especially from flames or chemicals.

🚨 When to Call 999 or 112

Seek urgent medical help if the burn or scald:

• Is larger than the person’s hand

• Involves the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints

• Goes completely around a limb or the body (check the belt line)

• Is deep, charred, or white

• Is caused by chemicals or electricity

• Affects a child, infant, or elderly person

• Shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, )

⚗️ Chemical Burns

• Rinse the affected area under running water for at least 20 minutes.

• Remove contaminated clothing carefully.

• Avoid touching the chemical directly.

• Call 999 or 112 immediately.

If possible, note the chemical’s name for medical staff.

⚡ Electrical Burns

• Do not touch the person until the power is turned off.

• Once safe, check for responsiveness and breathing.

• Look for entry and exist burns

• Electrical burns can cause internal injuries — always call 999 or 112, even if the burn seems minor.

🧯 Preventing Burns and Scalds

• Keep hot drinks, kettles, and irons out of children’s reach.

• Turn saucepan handles inward on the stove.

• Use protective gloves and clothing in workplaces.

• Test bath water temperature before getting in.

• Follow safety instructions when using chemicals or machinery.

Learn Burn Care with DAC Education

Our First Aid at Work and Emergency First Aid courses include hands-on burn management training — so you’ll know exactly how to respond quickly and correctly.

👉 Book a First Aid Course
(Delivered at our Suffolk HQ or on-site for groups of six or more.)

Disclaimer

This article provides general first aid guidance. Always call 999 or 112 if a burn is severe, caused by electricity or chemicals, or affects a vulnerable person.