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Burn Care Essentials: Proven First Aid Steps

Burn Care Essentials: Proven First Aid Steps

If you've suffered a burn, act quickly with these trusted first aid steps to minimize damage and promote healing.

Begin cooling immediately—the golden rule is 'water first, everything else later.' Use lukewarm, gently flowing tap water for about 10 minutes. Avoid overcooling to prevent hypothermia. Gently remove nearby clothing, but never pull off anything stuck to the skin.

Forcing stuck clothing can cause further injury. Do not apply ointments or remedies; cover the burn loosely with a clean cloth or sterile bandage. Seek medical help for large areas of affected skin, blisters, or burns from chemicals or electricity.

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