Burn injuries are some of the most painful and potentially life-threatening emergencies a first aider can encounter. Whether caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity, burns require fast, effective treatment to minimise long-term damage, reduce pain, and prevent infection.
This guide will walk you through the correct first aid response for burns, outline common signs and symptoms, and explain when to call for emergency help — all in line with best-practice Australian standards taught by Australian Pacific Training Solutions.
Recognising Burns: Signs and Severity
Burns can vary in depth, size, and location, all of which determine how severe they are and how urgently they require medical treatment.
🔥 Common Signs and Symptoms of Burns:
- Pain at or around the burn site
- Redness, swelling, blistering, or blackened skin
- Peeling or charred skin
- Signs of shock (pale, cold, clammy skin)
- Hoarse voice, coughing, or difficulty breathing (from smoke inhalation)
⚠️ Burns Considered Severe Include:
- Burns to the face, hands, feet, genitals, or joints
- Burns that wrap around a limb or chest
- Chemical or electrical burns
- Inhalation injuries (e.g., blackness around nose/mouth, singed nasal hairs)
- Burns in children, elderly people, or those with pre-existing conditions
- Burns that cover a large surface area
- Any burn with signs of airway compromise, reduced consciousness, or cardiac risk
First Aid for Burns: Step-by-Step
When providing first aid for burns, the goal is to stop the burning process, protect the wound, manage pain, and prevent infection.
✅ Immediate Actions for Burn First Aid:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Ensure safety | Remove danger (fire, electricity, chemicals), turn off power if needed. |
| Cool the burn | Use cool running tap water for at least 20 minutes. |
| Remove tight items | Take off rings, watches, and clothing near the burn before swelling. |
| Cover the area | Use a loose, non-stick dressing (e.g., plastic wrap or clean cloth). |
| Keep warm and still | Help the casualty rest; avoid hypothermia from water cooling. |
| Call 000 | For any severe burn or if unsure. |
💧 Hydrogel dressings can be used if clean running water is unavailable.
What Not to Do with Burns
Mismanagement can make burns worse. Avoid these common mistakes:
- ❌ Do not use ice or ice water
- ❌ Do not apply butter, creams, powders, or lotions
- ❌ Do not burst blisters
- ❌ Do not peel off stuck clothing
- ❌ Do not delay calling 000 for serious burns
Special Burn Situations
⚡ Electrical Burns
- May cause internal injuries — always call 000
- Turn off power before touching the person
- Look for entry/exit wounds
☠️ Chemical Burns
- Rinse affected area with water
- Consult the product's SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
- Contact the Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26
🌫️ Smoke Inhalation
- Signs include coughing, black residue, hoarseness
- Oxygen may be required — call 000 immediately
Fire Situations: What to Do
If someone is on fire:
- Stop, drop, cover, and roll
- Smother flames with a blanket
- Move away from danger (don’t re-enter a fire zone)
- Call for help and raise the alarm
