Burns: First aid

Most burn injuries are preventable. However, when an accident happens, you must react quickly and appropriately. You can improve the outcome of your child's burn if you use the proper first aid. Here is how.

Burn first aid

Remove any heat source

Burn injuries are often due to scalding with hot liquid. If a hot liquid is spilled on your child, immediately remove all clothes and diapers. Clothes hold the heat; and if they are kept on the burn, they may deepen the injury. Teach your child what to do if their clothing catches fire: stop, drop and roll. Your child should not run because this will spread the flames. Rolling on the ground will smother the flames.

1. Cool the burn

   

   Hold the burned or scalded area under room temperature running water for about 20 minutes. If you do not have access to running water, reapplying new cool, wet cloths/towels are also effective. 

2. Cover the burn

   

   Use a clean dry cloth or gauze dressing to lightly cover the burn.

3. Call 911

   

   Call for help if the burn is:

   • painful
   • large
   • if it is on the face, hands, feet or groin
   • if you are unsure what to do.

   
   

4. Do not use ice

   

   Putting ice on a burn can cause frostbite and further damage the skin.

5. Do not apply ointments

   

   Applying ointments could prevent proper healing. Do not apply butter, toothpaste, lotions or other creams.

6. Do not break blisters

   

   Broken blisters are more likely to get infected.
   

See a health-care provider even for minor burns

A health-care provider should examine your child's burn or scald within 72 hours (three days), even if it is a small injury. They can help you manage pain effectively and prevent infection.