Burns

Essential information to remember

If your child’s clothing is on fire, lie her down and quickly roll her entire body except her head in a blanket to extinguish the flames.

Photo: Société de sauvetage

In the event of a burn caused by fire, boiling liquid, or steam, run cool water over the burn or immerse it in cool water for 10 minutes.

If you cannot put the burn under water, apply a cool, clean wet cloth to the burned area. Do not rub it. Wet the cloth again when it is no longer cool.

If the clothing your child was wearing is stuck to the skin, do not remove it. Apply a cool, clean wet cloth and go to the emergency room.

If the burn is small and superficial, you can apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and put a bandage on it. Other substances like baby oil, vinegar, butter, and toothpaste can make the burn worse.

Information to which you should pay special attention

Go to the emergency room if the clothing is stuck to your child’s skin, the burn is extensive, or it affects the face, neck, hands, feet, genitals, or a joint.

If there is a blister, do not pop it because doing so could cause pain and lead to infection.

If the burn does not heal or shows signs of infection (e.g., redness around the burn or drainage), see a health professional.

Essential information to remember

You can call Info-Santé (8-1-1) to determine the severity of the burn or get information if you have any concerns.