Burns

The information below gives you the key steps to helping a child with a burn.


Step 1

Cool the burn under cold running water for at least ten minutes.

Cooling the burn will reduce pain, swelling and the risk of scarring. The faster and longer a burn is cooled, the less the impact of the injury.

Step 2

Cover the burn with cling film, or a clean plastic bag if a foot or hand has a burn.

This helps prevent infection by keeping the area clean. Cling film or plastic bags provide an ideal covering because they don't stick to the burn and reduce pain by keeping air from the skin’s surface.

Step 3

Call 999 if necessary.

The burn may need urgent medical treatment. Always seek medical advice for a baby or child that has been burned.