Open a PDF version to print this topic

HealthInfo Aoraki South Canterbury

Burns first aid

Whakarauora pāhunutanga

This page has links to information in other languages.

 

All burns need immediate first aid.

Important

If the person is seriously injured or not responding, call 111 for an ambulance.

Stop the burning and make things safe.

Cool the burn for 20 minutes

This stops the burn doing more damage and helps the pain. If possible, do this immediately (after making sure the area is safe and calling for help if needed). You can start this up to 3 hours after the injury.

Cover the burn

This helps to prevent infection and decrease pain.

Further treatment

Further treatment of burns depends on what has caused them and whether they are considered major or minor.

Major burns may include:

  HealthInfo recommends the following pages

  • KidsHealth – First aid for burns & scalds

    Information about burn first aid in tamariki.

  • St John – Burns

    First aid and more information about how to help someone who has been burned. Includes information about chemical burns and burns involving the mouth or throat.

  • On the next page: Minor burns

    Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed October 2024.

    Sources

    Page reference: 101208

    Review key: HIBUR-30143