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DRAFT — NOT FOR PUBLIC EMERGENCY USE
Draft content aligned with ILCOR/AHA resuscitation guidelines, IFRC/Red Cross first aid guidance, WHO emergency care principles, and NFPA fire safety standards. Requires expert review before publication.
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If someone needs immediate help with burn covering, use emergency mode.
Do this nowMany emergencies get worse when people panic or use the wrong action. Learning burn covering gives you a simple plan to protect yourself and help others while waiting for professional responders.
Follow these in order when you need this skill.
Check the scene for danger before you help. Do not become another casualty. Call for help when needed.
Covers cooled burn with sterile non-adherent dressing or clean cloth to protect and reduce pain/infection risk.
Use cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Do not use ice, butter, oil, or home remedies.
After cooling, cover with clean non-fluffy material. Remove jewelry near the burn before swelling.
Get emergency care for large burns, face or hand burns, chemical or electrical burns, or burns in children.
Things that can make the situation worse
Review this skill with a family member. Say the steps out loud and name one time you would call emergency services instead of doing more.
Question 1
What should you do first when using burn covering?
Answer: Make sure the scene is safe. Scene safety comes first. You cannot help if you become injured too.
Question 2
When should you stop and wait for professional help?
Answer: When you are unsure, untrained for the next step, or the situation is beyond basic first aid. Civilians save lives by calling for help and doing simple actions safely. Know your limits.
Practice this skill for these emergency situations.
More skills in Burns & heat.