Burns are a common injury that can be treated simply in many instances. First and Second Degree burns do not require special medical attention and are treatable by anyone. Third Degree burns are a special case and the victim of a third degree burn should be taken to the hospital.

. Identifying a First Degree Burn –A first degree burn is marked by the redness of the affected skin and the skin itself will be warm to the touch shortly after it occurs. Run the burn under cool water or cover with a cool, damp cloth until the burning sensation goes away.

. Identifying and Treating a Second Degree Burn — Second degree burns are more severe than first degree burns but unless the burn covers a large area of skin do not require hospitalization. The initial treatment for a second degree burn same as it is for first degree burns. Run the burn under cool water or cover with a damp cloth until the burning sensation goes away. Do not pop the blister that forms. The blister will be used by the body to heal the area.

. Identifying and Treating a Third Degree Burn –This is the most severe type of burn that usually results from fires or industrial accidents. The skin around a third degree burn will be charred because the area where the burn used to be has been burned off. Because nerve endings are damaged and the skin is removed the area itself is not painful.

. Third Degree Burns Require Medical Attention –There is little an outsider can do for a third degree burn victim. After treating for shock and removing clothing near the burn that is still hot, all a first responder can do is call emergency services. Third degree burns are treated by grafting skin from other areas of the body to replace the skin that was destroyed when the burn occurred.

. Treating Shock — Shock can occur after any serious injury. The patient’s feet should be elevated slightly and a blanket placed over him to keep him comfortable if one is available and it would not cause further discomfort.

. Aloe and Ointments — Putting butter on the area of a burn used to be recommended as a good first aid measure. Putting greases or any kind of cream on burns is now discouraged. They should only be used when a doctor prescribes it as part of a treatment for a second degree burns or first degree burns that cover a large area.

. Sunburn –Sunburn results from over exposure to the sun. Treatment is the same for the first and second degree burn types depending on how severe the sunburn is. It is also the easiest type of burn to avoid.

. Avoiding Sunburn –Wearing a sunscreen with an SPF factor of 15 or greater can prevent areas of exposed skin from getting sunburn. Wearing thick clothing and a hat with a large shade will protect other areas of the body from the suns damaging ultraviolet rays.

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