Celebrating summer can be a joyous time with family and friends. With all the festivities about, one should still remain vigilant about a common type of injury during this season: burns. Frequent in children, burns are skin damage that can come from overexposure to the sun, radiation, chemical, or electrical contact. Considering that many Local Government Units vary in the ban or permission of fireworks, it can also be helpful to be informed and know first aid for the treatment of minor burns. However, more serious types of injuries should always receive immediate medical attention. 

Types of Burns

1. 1st-degree burns: This type of burn is minor as only the outer layer of the skin is affected. Most people with this type of injury experience redness, pain, and swelling of the skin. Healing usually occurs in 7 to 10 days after the outermost layer is shed. 

2. 2nd-degree burns: Apart from the outer layer, the second layer of the skin becomes damaged. Common symptoms include swelling, blotchy skin, and blisters. Scarring is also a common side-effect after healing for 2 to 3 weeks.

3. 3rd-degree burns: The most serious type of burn, 3rd-degree burns penetrate the fatty layer making the skin appear leathery. Skin may turn black, brown, or white. Numbing sensations may also be felt as nerves may be damaged and healing time varies. 

First aid for minor burns

Depending on the size, location, and severity, some 1st-degree (and even 2nd-degree) burns may be treated at home. 

It is important to keep the wound clean by soaking it in cool water. Antibiotic ointment may be used for blisters along with loose gauze (not cotton) to stave off infection. Lidocaine, an anaesthetic, with aloe vera may also be utilized. In order to manage pain, one can also take over-the-counter medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.  

Home remedies such as ice, butter, lotion, and toothpaste could possibly worsen burns, and should be avoided at all costs. 

When to seek medical attention

One should seek more advanced medical help if the burn affects major areas such as the face, hands, buttocks, groin, and feet. In addition, infection and worsening symptoms are signs to seek out medical professionals. More importantly, one should never attempt to treat a 3rd-degree burn at home. 

(Sources: Mayo Clinic, Healthline)

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