Burn Safety Tips

• Cooling the burns: For first and second-degree burns, cool the burned area-preferably with cool running water for 10 minutes. This will lower the victim's skin temperature, which stops the burning process, numbs the pain and prevents or reduces swelling. Do not use ice or very cold water. Third-degree burns require immediate medical attention. Cool them only with wet sterile dressing until help arrives.

• Removal of burned clothing: Lay the victim flat on his or her back and remove burned clothing that isn't stuck to the victim's skin. Remove jewelry or tight-fitting clothing from around the burned area before welling begins and, if possible, elevate the injured areas.

• Covering the burn: After the burn has been cooled, apply clean, dry dressing to the burned area.

• Don't put butter or any other grease (including medicated ointments) on a burn. Grease holds heat, which might make the injury worse.

• Don't break blisters: The reason for not breaking blisters is that could allow germs into the wound.

• Treating for shock: To reduce the risk of shock, keep the victim's body temperature normal. Cover unburned areas with a dry blanket.