Burns

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Call Immediately for Emergency Medical Assistance if

Call your local emergency number (such as 911) if:

• The burn is extensive (for example, the size of your palm or larger), severe (third degree), or you aren't sure how serious it is.
• The burn is caused by chemicals or electricity.
• The person shows signs of shock.
• The burn is associated with smoke inhalation.
• Physical abuse is the known or suspected cause of the burn.

Call a doctor if your pain is still present after 48 hours. Call immediately if signs of infection develop. These signs include increased pain, redness, swelling, drainage or pus from the burn, swollen lymph nodes, red streaks spreading from the burn, or fever. Also call immediately if there are signs of dehydration including thirst, dry skin, dizziness, lightheadedness, or decreased urination. Children, elderly, and anyone with a weakened immune system (for example, HIV) should be seen right away.