What are the guidelines for emergency treatment of THERMAL BURNS?
Thermal burns are caused by flame, steam, hot liquid or hot metal. When a thermal burn occurs, seconds count! • Immediately move the victim from the source of the burn. If the victim’s clothing is still on fire, prevent the burn victim from running, which will only fan the flames. However, standing still makes the ignition of hair and inhalation of flames more likely. Instead, instruct the victim to stop, drop to the ground and roll to extinguish the flames. • Spray the victim with water or wrap him or her in a blanket, heavy coat or rug to smother any residual flames—or place a Water-Jel Fire Blanket on him or her to extinguish the flames. The U.S. Military uses this method. • If the flames were caused by a flammable liquid, like gasoline, make sure the burned individual avoids further exposure to heat or fire, which could trigger reignition of flames. • Do NOT put butter, grease, dry dressings, ointments or salves on a burn; experts contend that they don’t cool the burn or relieve th
