Fire Services

Fire Safety & Education

What to Do When a Burn Occurs

1. Stop the Burning Process
2. Remove the heat.
3. Stop, Drop, Roll
4. If clothes catch fire, smother the flames.
5. Do Not Run. Running makes the burn injury worse.
6. Call 911, Make the call for help immediately
7. Remove all Burned Clothing
8. Clothing may retain heat and cause deeper injuries
9. If clothes adhere to skin, cut or tear around adherent area.
10. Pour Cool Running Water Over Burn
11. Pour water over burned area for 10-15 minutes
12. Do Not Apply Ointments or Butter
13. They may cause infections due to their oil base and provoke deeper injury
14. For Minor Burn Injuries
15. Use an antiseptic spray to relieve and prevent infection.
16. Cover with a clean, dry dressing.
17. Wash daily with soap and water and change dressing.
18. If wound begins to drain excessively or have a foul odor seek immediate medical attention
19. Larger Surface Area Burns
20. Burns larger than a fist, cool the area as suggested above, cover with a dry clean dressing, then seek medical attention immediately
21. Assisting Electrically Injured Victim
22. Do not touch victim if he/she is still in touch with the source of electricity.
23. Remove all jewelry, belts, tight clothing from burned area. Swelling of burned area occurs immediately