Burn First Aid: How to Treat Burns Safely

Burns can happen in an instant—from hot pans, boiling water, campfires, chemicals, electricity, or even the sun. They are among the most common household injuries and can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening emergencies. Knowing proper burn first aid can reduce pain, prevent complications, and promote faster healing. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno offers CPR and First Aid classes that cover burn care and other life-saving techniques.

Types of Burns

Burns are classified by severity:

First-Degree Burns (Superficial)

• Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis)

• Skin appears red, dry, and painful (like a sunburn)

• Usually heal within 3–7 days without scarring

Second-Degree Burns (Partial Thickness)

• Involve outer and underlying skin layers

• Cause blistering, swelling, redness, and intense pain

• May take 2–3 weeks or more to heal and can leave scars

Third-Degree Burns (Full Thickness)

• Affect all layers of skin and may damage nerves, fat, or muscle

• Skin may appear white, charred, brown, or leathery

• May be numb due to nerve damage

• Require emergency medical treatment and possibly skin grafts

When to Seek Emergency Help

Call 911 or go to the ER immediately for:

• Deep, large burns or burns on the face, hands, feet, groin, or joints

• Chemical, electrical, or explosion-related burns

• Third-degree burns or burns that are white, blackened, or painless

• Burns affecting the mouth, throat, or causing breathing difficulty

• Burns in children, seniors, or medically vulnerable individuals

• Signs of shock, including pale skin, dizziness, weakness, or rapid breathing

First Aid for Minor Burns (First- and Small Second-Degree)

Step 1: Cool the Burn

• Hold the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 10–15 minutes

• Use a cool, wet cloth if water is unavailable

• Avoid ice—it can worsen tissue damage

Step 2: Remove Tight Items

• Gently remove rings, bracelets, or clothing near the burn before swelling

• Do not remove clothing stuck to the skin

Step 3: Protect the Area

• Cover the burn loosely with sterile, non-stick gauze or a clean cloth

• Avoid cotton balls or fluffy dressings that shed fibers

Step 4: Relieve Pain

• Take OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen

• Avoid popping blisters—they protect the wound and help it heal

Step 5: Keep It Clean

• Gently wash with mild soap and water daily

• Apply burn ointment or aloe vera for minor burns (avoid greasy substances like butter or oils)

  
  

Burn Myths to Avoid

• Do not use butter, toothpaste, or oils—they trap heat and increase infection risk

• Never pop blisters

• Avoid ice directly on burns

• Watch for infection signs like redness, swelling, pus, or worsening pain

Sunburns

Treat sunburn with cool compresses, aloe vera, moisturizer, hydration, OTC pain relief, and avoid further sun exposure until healed.

Prevention and Safety Tips

• Keep water heaters below 120°F (49°C)

• Keep hot drinks and cookware away from edges

• Use oven mitts and turn pot handles inward

• Never leave candles, stoves, or grills unattended

• Store chemicals safely out of reach of children

• Use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors

Conclusion

Burns are painful and can be dangerous—but proper first aid can reduce complications and support healing. Knowing when to treat burns at home and when to seek medical help is critical. Northern Nevada CPR in Reno teaches first aid for burns, CPR, and life-saving emergency skills to help you act confidently when every second matters.

Learn more and sign up for classes at northernnevadacpr.com