Articles
Burns: First aid
Is it a minor burn or a major burn?
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
Overview
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
Content
Is it a major or minor burn?
Treating major burns
Treating minor burns
Overview
When to seek emergency help
Treatment
Major burns
Minor burns
What to avoid
When to call your doctor
Is it a major or minor burn?
Call 911 or seek immediate care for major burns, which:
- Are deep
- Cause the skin to be dry and leathery
- May appear charred or have patches of white, brown or black
- Are larger than 3 inches (about 8 centimeters) in diameter or cover the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or a major joint
A minor burn that doesn't require emergency care may involve:
- Superficial redness similar to a sunburn
- Pain
- Blisters
- An area no larger than 3 inches (about 8 centimeters) in diameter
