Burn Safety and Awareness
How to Identify and Treat the 3 Types of Burns:
First Degree – Redness of skin similar to a sunburn. The burn will be dry and without blisters. There may be some swelling and the person will experience tenderness and some pain.
Treatment – Run under cool water for 20 minutes. If necessary, you may apply a burn ointment after cooling the burn.
Causes – Scalding water, sunburn, or flash flames.
Second Degree – Bright red or pink skin that has moist blisters. More intense pain.
Treatment – Don’t apply gels or ointments. Apply a sterile dressing. If the burn is over 1% of the body, or the victim is under 2 years old, see a doctor. Seek emergency care if the burn is on the hands, face, feet or genitalia or if the burn covers over 15% of an adult’s body or 10% of a child’s’ body. Do not pop the blisters!
Causes – Chemicals, flash flames, extremely hot liquids or solids.
Third Degree – Third degree burns can vary in their appearance. They can appear white or bright red on the outer edge to charred, dry, and mahogany colored. There is less initial pain due to more nerve damage. The area around the burn that does not have nerve damage will be painful.
Treatment – It is critical to call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately! Apply a sterile dressing and a cold wet washcloth until emergency help arrives.
Causes – Flames, chemicals, electrical, or hot solids or liquids.
If the victim is in shock have them lie flat and elevate their feet. If they are unconscious, position them on their side and slightly raise their head.
Most burns are the result of scalding spills or bathtub accidents. There are other less obvious ways of incurring a burn, however. Below are some safety precautions that you can take to prevent your students from getting these other types of burns:
- Have children wear shoes when they are outdoors, as sand and asphalt can burn.
- Test metal playground equipment to see if it’s hot before children are allowed to play.
- Avoid the sun between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. Both children and adults should always wear sunscreen.