First-Aid for Burns
Learn Something Today!
In a burn emergency, your first response can save a life. Here are 10 types of burns and the correct first aid steps to take at home while seeking medical help:
1. Flame Burn (Fire Exposure)
Stop the burning — drop, roll and cover with a blanket to extinguish flames. Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes.
2. Scald Burn (Hot Water/Oil/Steam)
Remove clothing soaked in hot liquid. Rinse under cool running water. Do not apply ice or butter.
3. Electrical Burn
Switch off the power source first. Do not touch the person until safe. Check for breathing and get immediate medical help.
4. Chemical Burn
Rinse with running water for at least 20 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing. Avoid neutralizing with other chemicals.
5. Contact Burn (Hot Surface/Metal)
Cool area under water. Cover with clean, non-stick cloth. Do not pop blisters.
6. Sunburn / Radiation Burn
Move to shade, apply cool compress and soothing gel. Drink water to prevent dehydration.
7. Grease / Oil Burn
Do not peel stuck clothing. Rinse gently with water and do not apply ointments or home oils.
8. Friction Burn
Clean gently with water, cover loosely with sterile gauze. Watch for signs of infection.
9. Flash Burn (Explosion/Fire Blast)
Move to safety. Cool the burn area. Monitor for airway difficulty — seek emergency care immediately.
10. Inhalation Burn (Smoke / Steam)
If coughing or struggling to breathe — this is an emergency. Cover mouth and nose with cloth and get medical help immediately. Do not give anything to eat or drink.