Although burns are most commonly caused by heat, they can also be caused by chemicals, extreme cold and electricity. Burns cause skin loss and tissue damage.

You can help by knowing what to do:

• Ensure that you, other people helping, and the patient are not in danger.
• Gently flood the burnt area with cool (not ice cold) water for 20 minutes. Do not use ice. A first aid burn gel may be used in place of cool water provided there is enough to cover the burn. In the absence of water any cool clean fluid (beer, soft drink etc) can be used.
• The shower or bath is a good place for cooling, but do not place small children in a cold bath or shower for twenty minutes, as this is a common cause of hypothermia in burnt children.
• Call 111 for an ambulance if the patient is badly injured, or the burn is: causing significant pain, or involves the eyes, or is larger than half the patient’s arm. 
• Remove clothing and jewelry from the burnt area, but do not remove clothing stuck to the skin.
• Do not put creams or ointments on the burn.
• Lightly cover the burn with cling film or a clean dressing.
• See a Doctor if the burn is causing ongoing significant pain, or involves the face, hands, joints or genitals. 

To test your knowledge and learn the basics of giving First Aid, why not try our free fun online programme at everydayhero.org.nz? For comprehensive First Aid information please refer to the St John Emergency Handbook. You can also ensure you are ready to help by completing a St John First Aid course.