Mild Burns and Scalds

Burns are caused by dry heat, e.g. fire or a clothes iron and are classified between the different degrees of burns, from first degree (least serious) to third degree (most serious).

Scalds are caused by liquids, steam and chemicals.

Both can be very painful and lead to blisters or red, black or charred skin.

HOW TO TREAT AT HOME

For first-degree and second-degree burns on a small area:

• Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burnt area. If clothing is stuck to the wound, cut around it but do NOT remove any stuck fabric

• Pour cool water over the wound for at least 10 minutes. Do NOT use ice, iced water or butter and other greasy substances

• Loosely cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage or cling wrap. Do NOT touch the burn or burst any blisters

SEE YOUR PHARMACIST IF:

• You need further advice on how to manage your wound. Your pharmacist can also recommend other medications for your condition or advise if you need to see a GP, or visit the emergency department

SEE YOUR GP IF:

• The wound shows no signs of improvement after more than a week has passed

• You notice signs of an infection, e.g. you also develop a fever, persistent redness and pain, swelling, or pus forming in the wound

GO TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING:

• Burns in the mouth, throat, eyes, ears, or genital area

• Burns over a large area of the body, i.e. bigger than your hand

• Caused by chemicals, electricity or lightning

• Third-degree burns, i.e. burnt skin is white, leathery or charred