The mechanism of injury will often determine the appropriate response for a burn injury, however, there are some basic important steps. By responding quickly you can reduce the extent of injury.

• The first action should be to stop the burning process by removing the source that is causing the burn.
• Remove any clothing or jewelry near the burn areas, as swelling will quickly occur. Don’t remove anything that is sticking to the wound.
• Cool the burned area as quickly as possible with cool or tepid water.
• Cover burns with clean dry dressings. Bandage them loosely in place.
• If possible, raise the burned area above the level of the heart.
• Initiate first aid. Monitor the ABC’s and watch for signs of shock. Keep the victim warm.
• Get medical attention for anything but minor burns.

Special Considerations

• Thermal - If it is possible, remove the burn victim from the source and extinguish any flames. If you are on fire "STOP, DROP & ROLL".
  
  
• Electrical – Don’t touch the person who is in contact with electricity. You must disconnect the power first but only if it is safe to do so. Your initial priorities are airway, breathing and circulation as well as cervical spine immobilization. Victims are often violently thrown around when electrocuted. Another consideration with electrical burns is to look for both entry and exit wounds.
  
  
• Chemical – With powdered chemicals attempt to brush as much of the product off as possible before flushing with water. Remove any contaminated clothing, jewelry and contact lenses. Flush with copious amounts of water for up to 1 hour but don’t unnecessarily delay seeking medical attention. Remember not to flush the product onto uninvolved portions of the body. Try and identify the chemical involved.
  
  
• Radiation – Any radiation burn including severe sunburn should be considered very serious. Seek medical attention.

What not to do:

• Don’t touch the burn, it is essential to reduce the risk of infection.
• Don’t pour cold water on a burn. Use cool or tepid water but don’t immerse the wound.
• Don’t put ice on a burn.
• Don’t apply any ointments, butter or grease to a burn. It traps heat within the burn.
• Don’t burst any blisters.