In the event of a burn, you must act fast to
try and minimise the damage to the patient. The following steps should be
followed but remember if you are unsure seek help, and dial 999 if
necessary.
Stop the Burning Process. The faster the better--within 30 seconds,if
possible. Burns can continue to injure tissue for a surprisingly longtime.
The quicker you can get the burn under cool running water the better. But it will still make a massive difference up to 3 hours after the burn happens. Cool the burn for 20 minutes under cool running water.
20 minutes will feel like a very long time, particularly if someone is screaming in pain. But keeping the burn under cool running water will really help to minimise scarring.
Do not use ice.
No first aid will be effective until the burning process has stopped.
Don’t pull at clothing if it is stuck to the burn or touch the burn itself.
No attempt should be made to remove clothing that is attached to a burn, as this will cause further problems.
These can include: further damage to the skin, prolonged healing and an
increased risk of permanent scars.
CALL for help for any burn bigger than a 50p coin: 999, NHS 111 / NHS Direct in Wales or your GP.
The priority afterwards is to prevent infection and recommended
actions for burns include covering with a bag or cling film until medical
assistance can be obtained. Or wrap a minor burn with a thin layer of
gauze, or apply clean dry clothing. Covering wounds reduces pain and
evaporative losses, but do not use an occlusive dressing.
Re-dress the wound every day by removing old dressings, re-washing,
and putting on clean dry covering. If the wound has been oozing, you may
have to soak off old dressings with clean tepid water.)
If it hurts a lot, the safest form of pain relief is Paracetamol.
Ring 999 if it’s an emergency and you need an ambulance.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
