Preventing Burns this Summer

Burns can be scary, and even when they are not severe, they can be really painful! There are so many types of burns, including thermal burns, chemical burns, friction burns, electrical burns, etc. Today, I want to share a bit about the most common type of burn -- thermal burns. These types of burns happen year-round, but they’re most common in the summer, and can happen from the sun, heat, hot water, steam, a fireplace, or an actual fire. 

TYPES OF BURNS

There are three types of thermal burns:

First Degree - Burn affects top layer of skin. There is redness and pain, but it does not blister.

Second Degree - Burn affects top two layers of skin. This burn will likely cause blisters and severe pain. 

Third Degree - Burn affects all layers of the skin, causing white or brown skin. There is little to no pain, but the damage is serious and often irreversible. 

HOW TO CARE FOR BURNS

If you are treating a manageable burn from home, here’s what you do: 

COOL IT.  Run cool water over it for at least 5-10 minutes. If they cannot tolerate cool running water, use a cool compress, but do not use ice as it can delay the healing process.

CLEAN IT.  If it needs to be cleaned, simply use soap and water, but no not break the blisters. If they do break, remove the dead skin to prevent infection.

COVER IT.  Use a petroleum-based ointment or Manuka honey prior to covering it with a non-stick bandage or a loose wrap. Do not apply any other lotions, creams, or food products to the burn. If necessary, remove any jewelry or clothing in the way of the cover.

HEALING

Burns could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to heal. As they heal, they may start to itch. Don’t let your child scratch it. Depending on the depth and severity of the burn, a scar may begin to develop. Call your doctor to receive medical advice for the scarring.

PREVENTING BURNS

There is no comprehensive list to preventing burns, but here are some of the most common, simple ways to do this in our homes:

  • Boil hot water on the back burners of the stove (and turn the handle toward the back of the stove)

  • Place a safe covering over the fireplace 

  • Make sure your water heater is at a safe temperature

  • Cover electrical outlets

  • Keep candles out of reach

  • Use sunscreen when in the sun and reapply as instructed 

  • Keep hot liquids such as soup or coffee out of reach

  • Feel playground equipment prior to use

  • Check hose water temperature prior to use 

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL CARE

While many burns are manageable at home, you should seek medical help immediately if…

  • The burn victim is an infant and is being fussy.

  • The burn is covering the hands, feet, genitals, groin, or face.

  • The burn was caused by chemicals or electricity. 

  • The burn has patches of black and white.

  • The burn victim has difficulty breathing. 

  • The burn is a severe second degree or a third degree burn. 

  • The burn is circumferential (goes all the way around any body part).

  • At any point you are uncomfortable caring for the burn at home. 

For more information on burns and other medical emergencies, check out my online course.

Disclaimer: The information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. 

medical emergencyShan Trippburns, summer safety, sunburn