WHAT IS THE BEST FIRST AID TREATMENT FOR A MAJOR BURN?

Your skin can be burned in a variety of accidents. For example, this could happen if you start a fire in your kitchen. The same holds true if you are involved in a motor vehicle accident of any kind.There is a big difference between a minor and major burn. If you have reason to believe that you have suffered a major burn injury on any part of your body, you should immediately call 911. It's important to receive professional medical attention without delay.

As you wait for help to arrive, do the following:

• Remove yourself from harm's way. For example, if possible, don't remain in close proximity to a burning vehicle. This will increase the chance of an additional injury.
• Check for signs of circulation. This can include everything from breathing to movement to coughing.
• Remove any restrictive items. This is particularly true of areas that have been burned. An example would be removing a ring from a burnt hand.
• Don't use cold water. Many people think it's a good idea to immerse a severe burn in cold water, however, this can lead to low blood pressure and shock.
• Elevate the area. If possible, elevate the burn above the heart.
• Cover the burn with a cool, moist cloth.

If you are involved in an accident in which you suffer a serious burn, it's important to take all the right first aid treatment steps. From there, let a professional take over. Down the road, you can then learn more about your accident and if you're in position to seek compensation from another party.

Source: Mayo Clinic, "Burns: First aid," accessed April 24, 2017