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ROYAL LIFE SAVING

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Burns

If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency please contact Triple Zero (000) immediately

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Introduction

Burns are injuries to the skin and underlying tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. They can occur in homes, workplaces, and recreational settings, often unexpectedly. The severity of burns can range widely, but they are always treated with care due to the risk of long-term damage and complications. Understanding what burns are underscores the importance of safety and prevention in daily life.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Redness, blistering, or charring 

  • Severe pain at site 

  • Swelling or peeling skin 

  • Inhalation burns: difficulty breathing, soot around mouth/nose

What you should do?

  • Follow DRSABCD 

  • Cool burn immediately with cool running water for 20 minutes (not ice) 

  • Remove jewellery or clothing around burn unless stuck to skin 

  • Cover with sterile non-stick dressing or cling film 

  • Call 000 if burn is severe, electrical, chemical, or to face/airway 

  • Monitor breathing and circulation

These fact sheets are provided by Royal Life Saving to support public, workplace, school, and community education. They must be used in their full and current format and are not permitted for commercial purposes unless written approval is obtained. The information is not a substitute for accredited First Aid training, and users are encouraged to complete recognised courses and refresh their skills regularly. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Royal Life Saving does not accept responsibility for how the material is applied, and users should always check they are referring to the latest version. Use of this content does not imply endorsement or partnership, and Royal Life Saving may request that use of its materials cease if considered inappropriate or unauthorised.

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