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Steps to Take When Someone is Burned and Scalded

Resource • January 06, 2021

1

To mitigate the irritation on the burnt skin, immediately rinse the area with cold running water until the pain subsides.

Rinse

2

Undress

After the burnt area is completely immersed in cold water, cautiously remove the clothes of the area. You may utilize scissors to cut the clothing off. If the clothes are adhered to the skin, do not remove them. 

3

Soak

Continue soaking the burned region of the skin and immersing it into cold water. However, if the victim is very young or a vast region of the skin is burned, DO NOT soak the area for a prolonged period of time.

4

Cover

Using a sterile towel, cloth, or non-adhesive bandage (gauze), cover the burned area. Do not apply any herbs, salves, oils, lotions, or creams. Do not rub or wipe the burned area.

5

Send

The victim should seek medical help if...

  • sign of infection is perceived

  • redness and pain persists for more than a few hours, or if it gets worse

  • blister caused by the burn is larger than two inches in diameter

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Medical help should be sought for additional treatment, unless the burn was minor. If the victim is an infant or elderly, go to the emergency room immediately.

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*For animals, seek veterinary attention immediately. Our team is currently devising a detailed procedure to adhere to when companion animals are burned and scalded. Please check back in our resources tab regularly to learn more!*

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