Types of Burns

Burns are divided into first, second, and third degree burns. First degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). These types of burns are the least serious as they are only on the surface of the skin. First degree burns usually appear red, dry, and slightly swollen. Blisters do not occur with this type of burn. They should heal within a couple of days. Second degree burns affect the top layer of the skin and the second layer of skin underneath (dermis). These are more serious than first degree burns. The skin may appear very swollen, red, moist, and may have blisters or look watery and weepy. Third degree burns are the most serious burn. A third degree burn affects all layers of the skin and may affect the organs below the surface of the skin. The skin may appear white or black and charred. The person may deny pain because the nerve endings in their skin have been burned away. Third degree burns require immediate medical treatment. If teachers suspect a child has a third degree burn, they should immediately call 911.

Guidelines to Prevent Burns

 Install and regularly test smoke alarms.

 Practice fire drills.

 Train staff to use fire extinguishers.

 Teach children to stop, drop, and roll.

 Never allow children to use electrical appliances unsupervised.

 Never use electrical appliances near water sources.

 Never use electrical appliances in which the cord appears to be damaged or frayed.

 Never pull a plug from the cord. Always remove a cord from an outlet by holding the base of the plug.

 Cover electrical outlets with childproof plugs. Never allow children to put anything inside an electrical outlet.

 Ensure stoves and other appliances are turned off when finished with them.

 Turn pot handles inward so that a person cannot accidentally bump a handle and spill hot liquids.

 Do not use space heaters and other personal heaters.