Burns and scalds
Overview
Burns and scalds are damage to the skin usually caused by heat. Both are treated in the same way.
Prevention
Many severe burns and scalds affect babies and young children. Examples of things you can do to help reduce the likelihood of your child having a serious accident at home include: keeping your child out of the kitchen whenever possibletesting the temperature of bath water using your elbow before you put your baby or toddler in the bathkeeping matches, lighters and lit candles out of young children's sight and reachkeeping hot drinks well away from young children Read more aboutpreventing burns and scalds.
When to see a doctor
Depending on how serious a burn is, it may be possible to treat it at home. For minor burns, keep the burn clean and do not burst any blisters that form. More serious burns require professional medical attention. You should go to a hospital A&E department for: all chemical and electrical burnslarge or deep burns– any burn bigger than the injured person's handburns that cause white or charred skin– any sizeburns on the face, neck, hands, feet, any joints or genitals If someone has breathed in smoke or fumes, they should also get medical attention. Some symptoms may be delayed and can include: coughinga sore throatdifficulty breathingfacial burns People at greater risk from the effects of burns, such as children under 10 years old, should also get medical attention after a burn or scald. The size and depth of the burn will be assessed, and the affected area cleaned before a dressing is applied. In severe cases, skin graft surgery may be recommended. Read more about: recovering from burns and scaldscomplications of burns and scalds