First aid for various types of burns: what to do at home

Every year, more than 50,000 people in Ukraine receive burns, according to the National Medical University. And about 10,000 of them are children. And now, during the war, this number has increased significantly. Therefore, knowing how to protect yourself from burns and provide first aid for burned loved ones is necessary!

What are burns, and what are their degrees?

In this article, we will tell you what burns are, what happens in the human body, and how to save yourself and your loved ones from different burns.

Burns are injuries caused by exposure to extreme heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. Understanding the degree and classification of burns and the appropriate first aid measures can help you provide timely and effective care.

Depending on the severity, burns are divided into different degrees: first, second and third.

First-degree burns

These burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). The skin’s protective barrier is broken, leading to inflammation, redness, and pain. Usually, such burns heal within a week. A common example is sunburn.

Second-degree burns

These burns penetrate deeper, altering both the epidermis and part of the dermis (the second layer of skin). They lead to the formation of blisters, severe pain, and swelling, with a risk of infection and scarring. Medical attention may be needed for large burns, and to prevent scarring and complications.

Third-degree burns

These are the most severe burns that cover all layers of the skin. They can cause skin charring, white or blackened areas, and often damage blood vessels and nerves, making them numb. Loss of the skin’s protective barrier increases the risk of infection and fluid loss. Such burns require immediate medical intervention, which typically involves surgical procedures such as skin grafting.

In addition, burns differ depending on what causes them. Further, we will talk about step-by-step first aid for different types of burns.

First aid for burns with boiling water at home

Boiling water is probably one of the most common causes of burns, especially in children.

They vary in severity depending on the duration of exposure and water temperature, and can lead to rapid cell damage and tissue destruction.

The severity of the burn depends on the depth of tissue damage. For minor burns:

• Cool the burn: Run cool (not cold!) water over the burn for about 10–15 minutes. This helps reduce pain and prevent further damage.
• Cover the burn area with a clean, non-stick cloth or sterile gauze to prevent infection.
• Use pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease discomfort.

In the case of significant burns with boiling water, first call an ambulance, and then do the above.

First aid for chemical burns

Chemical burns occur when caustic substances come into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. These burns can cause immediate tissue damage and can continue even after the chemical has been removed from the tissues.

• Immediately flush the affected area with cool, running water for at least 20 minutes.
• Eliminate contact: Remove any chemical-soaked clothing or objects to prevent further exposure.
• Call an ambulance.

Get medical help: Even if the burn seems minor, chemical burns can get worse over time. See a doctor immediately!

First aid for thermal burns

Thermal burns are caused by contact with flames, hot objects, or heated surfaces. Such burns lead to tissue damage due to the transfer of thermal energy. This can cause varying degrees of damage to skin layers, blood vessels, nerves, and underlying structures. The degree of burn depends on the temperature, duration of exposure, and area of damage.

• Move away from the heat source to prevent further injury.
• Cool the burn: Flush the burn with cool water for 10–15 minutes to reduce heat and pain.
• Remove constricting objects: If the burn is on an arm or leg, remove any constricting objects, such as rings or bracelets, as swelling may occur. Remove clothing from the injured area.
• Use a clean, non-stick cloth or sterile gauze to cover the burn loosely.

What NOT to do with burns:

• Do not use ice: Applying ice directly to the burn can cause even more damage.
• Do not pop the blisters: this increases the risk of infection.
• Do not cover the burn with oil, salves, or other home remedies: they can trap heat and prevent healing.
• Do not use adhesive plasters on large burns: they can impede blood flow and cause complications.

In cases of serious burns, such as electrical burns, burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals, or burns from chemicals or explosions, seek immediate medical help. By understanding the extent of your burns and following the appropriate first aid steps, you can save lives and promote faster healing.