First Aid for Burns

Eliminate the Source of the Burn. The source of the burn must be eliminated before any evaluation or treatment of the victim can occur.

Thermal

Cover the thermal burn with any large non-synthetic material, such as a jacket. Roll the victim on the ground to put out the flames. Synthetic materials, such as nylon, may melt and cause further injury.

Electrical

Remove the victim from the electrical source by turning off the electrical current. DO NOT attempt to turn off the electricity if the source is not close by. Speed is critical - DO NOT waste unnecessary time.

If the electricity cannot be turned off - wrap any non-conductive material (dry rope, dry clothing, dry wood, etc.) around the victim's back and shoulders and drag the victim away from the electrical source.

High voltage electrical burns may cause temporary unconsciousness, difficulties in breathing, or difficulties with the heart (heartbeat).

WARNING! DO NOT make body-to-body contact with the victim or touch any wires because you could also become an electrical burn victim.

Liquid Chemical

Remove the chemical from the burned victim. Remove liquid chemicals by flushing with as much water as possible. If water is not available, use any nonflammable fluid to flush chemicals off the victim.