QUESTION: How to help with a burn?

Providing first aid for a burn requires strict adherence to the sequence of actions to reduce pain and prevent severe complications. The first step is to immediately cool the damaged area of skin. To do this, place the burned area under a stream of moderately cold running water and hold it for ten to twenty minutes to lower the tissue temperature and stop the damage process.

The second important rule is the categorical refusal to use ice for cooling. The use of ice can cause severe vasospasm and additional tissue frostbite against the background of an already existing burn, so use exclusively cool water.

The third step is to carefully free the affected area from constricting items. Remove rings, watches, bracelets, belts, or tight clothing from the burned limb before the inevitable tissue swelling begins, which will make removing these items impossible and painful.

The fourth step consists of protecting the integrity of the skin. Under no circumstances should you puncture formed blisters and bubbles, as the thin skin underneath them serves as a natural barrier protecting the sterile wound surface from dangerous bacteria and infections.

The fifth step is to apply a clean, dry, and loose sterile bandage to the burn site that will not stick to the wound. Do not use oils, fats, alcohol, or folk remedies like sour cream. The sixth step is an immediate ambulance call if the burn area exceeds the size of the victim's palm, or if the face, hands, or respiratory tract are damaged.