First Aid for Burns and Scalds

  • 4 min reading time

Burns and scalds are some of the most common household and workplace injuries in the UK. Hot surfaces, boiling water, steam, cooking oil, chemicals and electrical equipment can all cause harm within seconds. Knowing how to respond immediately - and safely - can make a big difference while waiting for professional care if needed.

This guide provides simple, step-by-step advice for treating minor burns and scalds, when to seek further help, and how to prepare your home or workplace with the right first aid supplies.

For burn-related kit options, see our full collection of UK first aid kits.

What’s the Difference Between a Burn and a Scald?

Although the treatment steps are similar, it helps to understand the difference:

Type Cause Examples
Burn Dry heat Ovens, irons, hair straighteners, radiators, fire.
Scald Hot liquids or steam Kettles, boiling water, hot drinks, steam from cooking.

First Aid Steps for Minor Burns & Scalds (UK Guidance)

These steps apply to common, minor burns and scalds. Always follow official NHS or emergency guidance where required.

  1. Cool the area under cool running water for 20 minutes. This helps reduce discomfort and heat from the skin.
  2. Remove any jewellery or tight items if possible, before swelling begins.
  3. Cover with a sterile dressing or clean non-fluffy material (e.g., cling film)
  4. Avoid using ice, creams, oils, toothpaste or butter — these can irritate the skin.
  5. Keep the person warm to prevent cooling of the body.

For workplaces, see our Workplace First Aid Scenarios Guide.

When to Seek Further Help

Seek further advice if the injury:

  • ✔ Appears large
  • ✔ Affects hands, feet, face or joints
  • ✔ Was caused by chemicals or electricity
  • ✔ Causes significant discomfort
  • ✔ Occurs in young children or vulnerable individuals

For families, see our Baby & Child First Aid Guide.

What Should a Burn First Aid Kit Include?

A well-prepared home or workplace should have items suitable for treating minor burns and scalds. Typical supplies include:

  • ✔ Burn gel dressings
  • ✔ Burn gel sachets
  • ✔ Sterile non-adherent dressings
  • ✔ Cling film (for covering minor burns)
  • ✔ Sterile saline or eyewash pods
  • ✔ Nitrile gloves
  • ✔ Conforming bandages
  • ✔ Pain-free adhesive dressings

Burn Hazards at Home

Burns and scalds commonly occur in:

  • ✔ Kitchens (cooking, kettles, ovens)
  • ✔ Bathrooms (hot water, steam)
  • ✔ Living rooms (fires, heaters)
  • ✔ Gardens (BBQs, firepits)
  • ✔ Garages (chemicals, tools)

See our Home First Aid Kit Guide for full preparation tips.

Burn Risks in Workplaces

Burns are also common in:

  • ✔ Restaurants & cafés (hot oil, steam, pans)
  • ✔ Warehouses (heat sealers, equipment)
  • ✔ Construction (hot tools, materials)
  • ✔ Schools & labs (science equipment)
  • ✔ Industrial settings (machinery)

Explore industry-specific requirements in our Damaged Kit Guide.

How to Prevent Burns & Scalds at Home or Work

  • ✔ Use kettle cords safely
  • ✔ Keep hot pans and drinks away from children
  • ✔ Maintain hot water temperatures safely
  • ✔ Wear protective clothing when needed
  • ✔ Store chemicals securely
  • ✔ Keep fire extinguishers and blankets accessible

For households, see our No Kit? What To Do Guide.

Burns & Scalds — First Aid FAQ

Should I use ice on a burn?
No. Ice can irritate the skin. Use cool running water instead.
How long should I cool a burn for?
20 minutes under cool running water is recommended for most minor burns.
Can I use butter or cream?
No. Butter, creams and oils can trap heat and irritate the skin.
Can you treat a burn with cling film?
Yes, cling film can be used as a covering for minor burns, applied loosely in a non-fluffy layer.
Do workplaces need burn-specific supplies?
Many workplaces choose to include burn gels or dressings based on their risk assessment.

 

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