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Burns: First aid

Burns are tissue damage from a variety of sources. Examples are hot liquids, the sun, flames, chemicals, electricity and steam. Kitchen-related injuries from hot drinks, soups and microwaved foods are common among children.

Major burns need emergency medical help. Minor burns can usually be treated with first aid.

Call 911 or seek immediate care for major burns, which:

Electrical burns, including those caused by lightning, and major chemical burns need emergency medical care. A minor burn might need emergency care if it affects the eyes, mouth, hands or genitals. Babies and older adults might need emergency care for minor burns as well.

For major burns, apply first aid until emergency help arrives:

For minor burns, follow these first-aid guidelines:

If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past five years and the burn is deep, you may need a booster shot. Try to get this within 48 hours of the injury.

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