Chemical Burns

Chemical Burns


Try removing the cause of the burn. Flush the chemicals off the skin surface with cool running water for 20 minutes or more. If the burning chemical is a powder like substance such as lime, brush it off your skin before flushing.

Remove clothing or jewelry that has been contaminated by the chemical.

Wrap the burned area with a dry, sterile dressing or a clean cloth.

Wash the burn again for several more minutes if the victim complains of increased burning after the initial washing.


Minor chemical burns usually heal without further treatment.


Get emergency medical help if:


The chemical burned through the first layer of skin and the resulting second-degree burn covers an area more than 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

The chemical burn occurred on the hands, feet, face, groin, buttocks or a major joint.

Electrical Burns


An electrical burn may appear minor, but the damage can extend deep to the tissues beneath the skin. If the amount of electrical current that passed through the body was large, internal damage such as a heart rhythm disturbance or cardiac arrest can occur. Sometimes the jolt associated with the electrical injury can cause you to be thrown or to fall, resulting in fractures or other associated injuries. If this is the case, get emergency medical care immediately.

While waiting for medical help, follow these steps:


Make sure the person is breathing. If breathing has stopped or you suspect the person's airway is blocked, attempt to clear the airway and begin CPR.

If the person is breathing, cover any burned areas with a sterile gauze bandage or clean cloth. Don't use a blanket or towel.


Stay with the person until emergency medical personnel arrive.