Burns and Scalds in Children

Burns and scalds are injuries that affect the skin due to heat, chemicals, electricity, or friction.

In children, these injuries often result from accidental contact with hot liquids, steam, fire, or household appliances.

The severity depends on the depth and extent of tissue damage.

First-degree burns cause redness and mild pain.
Second-degree burns result in blisters and more intense discomfort.
Third-degree burns damage deeper layers of skin and may require urgent medical attention.

Quick application of first aid can significantly minimize complications and promote healing.

Immediate First Aid for Burns and Scalds

An old red metal first aid kit with a white cross symbol, placed on a wooden table in a dimly lit room — Having a well-stocked first aid kit at home, in your car, and at work can make a crucial difference in responding to emergencies quickly and effectively

Providing immediate first aid after a burn or scald can significantly reduce pain, minimize damage, and improve the chances of proper healing. Acting quickly is essential to prevent further harm.

Burns can worsen if not treated correctly, and improper care can increase the risk of complications such as infection or scarring. The following steps outline the best approach to handling burns and scalds in children.

Stop the Burning Process

The first priority is to remove the child from the heat source and stop any ongoing damage. This must be done safely to avoid worsening the injury.

Move the child away from the heat source as soon as possible. Delayed action can lead to a deeper burn.
If clothing catches fire, instruct the child to stop, drop, and roll to smother the flames. Do not allow them to run, as movement can intensify the fire.
Douse flames with water or cover the child with a thick material such as a wool blanket to put out the fire.
For electrical burns, turn off the power source before touching the child. If the source cannot be turned off safely, use a non-conductive object, such as a wooden stick, to move the electrical wire away.

If the burn is caused by chemicals, rinse the affected area with cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Be cautious with certain chemicals, as some require specific treatments.

Cool the Burn

Cooling the burn is crucial for stopping the injury from spreading into deeper layers of the skin.

Run cool tap water over the affected area for at least 20 minutes. This reduces pain and prevents further tissue damage.
Do not use ice or very cold water, as extreme temperatures can cause additional harm. Ice can restrict blood flow and worsen the injury.
Keep the child warm while cooling the burn. Prolonged exposure to cool water can lead to hypothermia, especially in infants and small children. Cover the uninjured parts of their body with a dry blanket.

For burns on the face or sensitive areas, use a wet, cool cloth instead of running water to provide relief.

Remove Clothing and Jewelry

Burned skin can swell quickly, so removing any tight items near the affected area is important.

Carefully remove clothing or accessories that cover the burned skin unless they are stuck. Swelling can make removal more difficult later.
If clothing has adhered to the burn, do not pull it off. Instead, cut around the stuck fabric and leave it in place to prevent further injury.
Remove any tight jewelry, such as rings or bracelets, near the affected area, as swelling can make removal more difficult once it sets in.

Cover the Burn

After cooling, the burn should be protected to prevent infection and further irritation.

Use a loose, non-stick dressing, such as a sterile bandage, plastic wrap, or a clean plastic bag. Wrapping should be gentle to avoid applying pressure on the burn.
Do not use adhesive bandages, as they can stick to the wound and cause pain during removal.
Keep the burn clean by avoiding exposure to dirt or bacteria. Do not apply ointments, butter, or lotions, as these can trap heat and worsen the injury.
Encourage the child to keep the burned area still to reduce discomfort and prevent further damage.

Quick and effective Home remedies for first aid can help control the severity of a burn and improve recovery outcomes. Knowing how to respond in these situations can make a significant difference in a child’s healing process.

When to Seek Medical Help

A serious-looking young boy in a yellow jacket extends his hand, which is covered in black soot or dirt, standing against a blurred industrial background — Children are more vulnerable to environmental pollution and toxins due to their developing immune systems, making clean air and water crucial for their health and future well-being

Call an Ambulance (000, 112, or 999) if:

The burn is deep, covers a large area, or affects sensitive regions such as the face, hands, genitals, or airway.
The child has difficulty breathing due to inhalation of smoke or hot air.
Signs of shock appear, such as pale or clammy skin, dizziness, or weakness.
The burn was caused by exposure to chemicals or electricity.

Visit a GP or Emergency Department if:

The burn is larger than a 20-cent coin (€2 coin).
The skin appears blistered, white, or charred.
Pain is severe and not relieved by appropriate medication.
Getting medical evaluation can help determine if additional treatment is necessary.

Infections, scarring, and long-term complications can sometimes be prevented with prompt care.

What NOT to Do

Mistakes in treating burns and scalds can lead to infection, increased pain, or long-term damage. Some well-known home remedies can do more harm than good.

A child holding a large, irregularly shaped piece of ice with both hands, with sunlight reflecting through it — Applying ice directly to a burn can cause more tissue damage. Instead, cool the area with lukewarm running water for at least 10 minutes to reduce the severity of the injury

It is important to avoid actions that can worsen the injury or slow recovery.

Do not pop blisters. Blisters form as a natural barrier to protect the underlying skin. Popping them exposes the area to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. If a blister breaks on its own, keep the area clean and covered with a sterile, non-stick dressing.
Do not apply creams, lotions, butter, or oils. Many believe that applying household remedies or thick ointments can soothe the skin. In reality, these substances trap heat, which can prolong tissue damage. Some creams may also contain ingredients that further irritate the skin. Medical professionals should assess the burn before any topical treatments are used.
Do not use ice or iced water. While cooling the burn is essential, using ice or extremely cold water can cause further damage by restricting blood flow and leading to frostbite-like effects. Instead, use cool running water for at least 20 minutes to effectively lower the temperature of the affected area.
Do not peel off clothing stuck to the burn. If fabric adheres to the injured skin, pulling it away can cause further damage and pain. Instead, cut around the stuck portion, leaving it in place. A medical professional will handle removal safely to avoid complications.
Do not use adhesive bandages or cotton dressings. These materials can stick to the wound, causing pain when removed and potentially reopening the injury. Instead, opt for a sterile, non-stick dressing such as plastic wrap or a clean plastic bag to protect the area.
Do not blow on the burn or touch it with unclean hands. Blowing on a burn introduces bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. Always wash hands thoroughly before tending to a burn to minimize contamination.
Do not delay seeking medical attention for serious burns. Some burns may look less severe than they are. Delaying treatment can result in complications such as infection or long-term scarring. If the burn covers a large area, affects sensitive regions, or appears white, blackened, or leathery, immediate medical care is necessary.
Avoiding these common mistakes helps promote better healing and prevents further complications. Proper first aid and knowing when to seek medical help are key to ensuring a child’s safety and recovery.

The Bottom Line

Most kids have a very short attention span or they suffer from ADHD, with that its normal for them to be clumsy and when they’re clumsy accidents happen. As a parent, you can ease your child’s burns by seeking medical attention and avoiding actions that can worsen the injuries!

Proper first aid can reduce pain, limit damage, and improve healing. Knowing how to respond quickly can prevent further injury and lower the risk of complications.

Seeking medical attention when necessary ensures that children receive the best possible care.

Burns and Scalds in Children – Immediate Care Tips and When to Seek Help