All emergency guideshigh Call 999 where appropriate
Emergency
Burns & Scalds
Cool with running water for 20 minutes. Cover loosely. Never apply creams.
Immediate actions
- Stop the burning — remove from heat source.
- Cool the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes.
- Remove clothing/jewellery near burn (not if stuck).
- Cover with cling film (not tightly) or clean plastic bag.
- Keep casualty warm — cooling burns can cause hypothermia.
When to call 999
- Larger than casualty's hand
- On face, hands, feet, genitals or across a joint
- Deep, white or charred
- Electrical or chemical burn
- Child, elderly or vulnerable casualty
What NOT to do
- No butter, toothpaste, creams
- Don't burst blisters
- Don't peel stuck fabric
GuardAssist provides operational decision support. It does not replace formal training, employer procedures, assignment instructions or professional judgement. In a life-threatening emergency, dial 999.