first aid for burns

In a fire, you may be called on to help a co-worker who has been burned. You need to know the first aid measure to take until emergency medical assistance arrives on the scene. That means you must know how to recognize and treat first-, second-, and third-degree burns.

first-degree burns

signs: Redness of skin, pain, and mild swelling.

treatment: Apply cool, wet compresses, or immerse in cool, fresh water-not ice or salt water. Continue until pain subsides. Leave uncovered.

second-degree burns

signs: Deep reddening of skin. Glossy appearance from leaking fluid. Possible loss of some skin. Blisters.

treatment: Immerse in fresh, cool water-not ice or salt water-or apply cool compresses. Continue for 10 to 15 minutes. Dry with clean cloth and cover with sterile gauze. Do not break blisters. Elevate burned arms or legs. Further medical treatment is required.

third-degree burns

signs: Loss of skin layers. Painless. Skin is dry and leathery. Possible charring of skin edges. Patches of first- and second-degree burns often surround third-degree burns.

treatment: Cover burn lightly with sterile gauze or clean cloth. (Do not use material that can leave lint on the burn.) If face is burned, have person sit up. Watch closely for possible breathing problems. When possible, burned area should be elevated higher than the victim's head. Keep person warm and comfortable, and watch for signs of shock. Immediate medical attention is required.

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