Burns

When someone has been burnt there are a number of procedures that you should follow:

• Monitor the individual's airway and breathing
• If possible lay the individual on the ground to help with the effects of shock
• Pour coll liquid over the burnt area for 10 minutes, this will reduce the swelling and risk of scarring
• Ensure that the cool water is not hitting the burn at speed because this will cause additional pain and damage
• Remove rings, watches or other jewellery as burns swell up
• When pain has eased cover the wound to prevent infection
• This should be done with a sterile bandage or if you do not have this, cling film would be sufficient.
• Ensure that it is applied loosely
• If you feel that the material may stick to the wound, then do not attempt to cover it just continue to cool it and wait for medical help to arrive
• If possible raise the injured part as this will help to reduce swelling
• Wait with the injured individual and keep checking airway, breathing and that the bandage is not too tight