Burn First Aid: What to Do Right After a Burn

If you’ve just gotten burned, the panic button can hit fast. The good news is most burns can be handled at home if you act quickly and know the right steps. Below is a no‑fluff rundown that gets you from “ouch” to “I’m okay.”

Immediate Steps to Treat a Burn

1. Stop the heat source. Whether it’s hot water, a flame, or a chemical, move away from it right away. This prevents the burn from getting worse.

2. Cool the area. Run cool (not ice‑cold) water over the burn for 10 to 20 minutes. Cold water pulls heat out of the skin and eases pain. If you don’t have a faucet, soak a clean cloth in cool water and press it gently on the wound.

3. Remove tight items. Take off rings, bracelets, or clothing that might constrict swelling. Do this before the area starts to puff up.

4. Cover loosely. Use a sterile non‑stick gauze pad or a clean cloth. Don’t use fluffy cotton or adhesive bandages that can stick to the burn.

5. Relieve pain. Over‑the‑counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen work well. Follow the label dosage and avoid aspirin for kids.

6. Keep it clean. Gently wash the surrounding skin with mild soap. Do not scrub the burn itself; you want to keep the damaged tissue intact.

When to Call a Doctor

If the burn is larger than the palm of your hand, looks deep (white, charred, or leathery), or is on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or a major joint, get professional help fast. Same rule for babies and older adults—any sign of infection like pus, increasing redness, or fever means it’s time to call.

Electrical burns are tricky because damage can run deeper than what you see on the surface. Even if the skin looks okay, seek medical attention right away.

Chemical burns need a specific rinse approach: flush the area with plenty of water for at least 20 minutes and remove any contaminated clothing. After rinsing, follow the basic cooling steps above, but still call a doctor if you’re unsure about the chemical’s strength.

For minor burns (first‑degree or small second‑degree), you can usually manage at home. Keep the area moist with a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and change the dressing daily. Watch for signs that it isn’t healing—persistent pain, spreading redness, or swelling.

Don’t pop blisters. They act as natural protection. If they break on their own, clean gently and re‑cover with sterile gauze.

Remember to update your tetanus shot if the burn was caused by something dirty or rusty. A quick check with your doctor can save you a nasty infection later.

Finally, stay calm and act fast. The first few minutes after a burn make the biggest difference in pain relief and healing speed. Keep this guide handy—whether you’re at home, in the kitchen, or on a camping trip—and you’ll know exactly what to do when a burn happens.