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Emergency Care

Basic First Aid for Burns

What to do in the first minutes after a burn.

Dr. Meenakshi Sundaram
MBBS, MS Obstetrics and Gynaecology
2 min read
Updated 20 Aug 2026
Medically reviewed by Dr. Aman Khurana, MBBS, MD Psychiatry

Cool the burn

Hold the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes. Do not use ice, butter or toothpaste.

Protect it

Cover loosely with a clean, non fluffy cloth or cling film.

Seek care

Get medical help for large burns, burns on the face, hands or genitals, or burns in young children.

Trusted sources

  • World Health Organization (who.int)
  • Indian Council of Medical Research (icmr.gov.in)
  • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India (mohfw.gov.in)
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are worried about your health, talk to a doctor or call 112 in an emergency.
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