How do you treat first degree burns ?

There are three levels of burns, first degree, second degree and third degree and they each have different levels of seriousness. For this article our attention will be focused first degree burns. First degree burns are the least serious and they only affect the top layer of the skin, a good example of a first degree burn is sunburn. Sunburn occurs when we stay in the sun too long without protection and can be very damaging to the skin. So, how do you treat first degree burns ?

Let us use the sunburn example again as it is one of the major causes of first degree burns. A patient who is sunburned should be given a glass of cold water to take regular sips from. The burned area should also be bathed with tepid water and if possible, calamine lotion can be applied for its cooling effects. Generally, a person who is sunburnt will be in no more immediate danger however more serious sunburns should be examined by a doctor as blisters may develop and the victim will more than likely be in shock.

If the burn is caused by a match or a candle or maybe boiling water the first aider should remove any jewellery or watches because they will be painful if the burn swells up. The burn should again be bathed in tepid water. The burn should covered with a sterile dressing which is free from fluff (as this will stick to the burn and be extremely difficult and painful to remove. It may even lead to infection). It is not necessary to apply any lotions or creams to this type of burn.

Preventing Burns

More care when dealing with fire can often prevent any burns from ever happening. Follow these tips and stay burn free.

·       If you`re using a gas cooker, light the match first and then switch on the gas. This is a common mistake and if the  gas is turned on first, it will build up and may ignite when you create the flame.

·       Keep your pan handles away from flames as they become extremely hot very quickly and can cause nasty burns.

·       When you are cooking try not to stray from the kitchen, keep a close eye on what you are doing and stay in control. Be particularly careful when cooking with fat as this can often catch fire itself if the pan gets very hot.

·       Keep your tea towels away from the cooker.

·       Install a fire alarm if you haven’t already got one, they save lives. Even consider installing a fire blanket and distinguisher, they can save vital time if something catches fire.

·      It is very important to ensure that all cigarette ends are distinguished in an ash tray. Never throw them into a bin, even if they seem to be out.

·       Use your common sense.

How do you treat first degree burns ? remain calm and follow the advice above. If you havent already, consider a first aid cause as this will allow you to develop other areas of first aid skills.