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Burn Treatment Information & Help Guide

What causes burns?

   There are four main causes for burns:

  • Thermal Burns are caused by direct or radiant heat exposures to extreme temperatures.  They result from fire, steam or any other exposure to increased temperatures
  • Radiation Burns are caused by the sun, x-rays, welding flashes or radioactive material
  • Chemical Burns are caused by skin exposure to chemicals.  Flush the area with large amounts of water.
  • Electrical burns are caused by skin exposure to electricity.  Before treating the person, make sure that the power supply has been eliminated!

Can you explain the different levels of burn severities?

There are different types of burns.  They include:
  • Superficial Burns which affect only the top layer of the skin (i.e. sunburns).  The skin is red and sore.
  • Partial Thickness Burns which affect the first and second layers of the skin (i.e. scalds).  The skin is red and has blisters.
  • Full Thickness Burns where the burn has reached the deeper tissues, possibly into the fatty tissues.  The skin is charred.  Get medical help immediately!

What are the basics of burn treatment?

For Superficial and Partial Thickness Burns:
  • Cool the area with cool water
  • Cover with dry, sterile dressings
  • Do not break the blisters
  • Do not apply ointments or petroleum based products. Petroleum based products do not allow the heat to dissipate.  They keep the heat in.
  • Do not apply ice

For Full Thickness Burns:

  • Cover with dry, sterile dressings or burn dressings
  • Remove loose clothing or jewelry near the burned area
  • Get medical help immediately!
  • Do not apply ointments or petroleum based products
  • Do not apply ice

What is the most common mistake in treating burns?

The most common mistakes in treating burns include the breaking of blisters or using ointments
 

Should all types of burns be treated differently?

Absolutely.  The treatment must correspond to the severity and the type of burn
 

Why do I need training on treating burns?

So that you get the knowledge and skills needed to ensure that you do not unknowingly make the burn worse (see common mistakes above).  Take a Standard First Aid course to learn how to deal with burns in more detail.
 

Where can I buy burn treatment products?

From F.A.S.T Rescue we sell burn products for all types of burns and from many different manufacturers. Some of our products include:

Note: This information is offered as information only and is designed to promote Health & Safety in the workplace and the community.  It is subject to change.




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