First-Aid Procedures > Scalds

Scald injuries are one of the most common causes of serious burn injuries among children. A child's reflexes do not respond quickly to hot temperature threats. Common threats to children are bath or shower water and sink faucets.

Scald burns can range from reddened skin to massive blisters and oozing of fluid. Serious scald burns that cover a large area of the body can threaten a child's life.

FIRST AID FOR SCALD BURNS

1. Immerse the burned area in cool water, apply cool compresses to burns of the trunk or face, and continue until the child does not seem to be in pain.
2. Do not break blisters.
3. Do not apply ice, butter, oil.
4. After soaking in cool water, cover the area with a non-stick bandage.

SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY FOR:

1. Any burns on the face, hands, feet, or genitals or
2. Any burn injury to a child less than 5 years old.