Burn awareness 

Know how to prevent burns and give first aid quickly to reduce injury and long-term harm.

First aid for burns and scalds

Act quickly – following the right steps can make a big difference. 

Remember: Cool, Call, Cover 

  • Cool the burn under cold running water for at least 20 minutes. 

  • Remove clothing and jewellery unless stuck to the skin. 

  • Call for help if needed (999, 111 or your GP). 

  • Cover the burn with cling film or a clean, non‑fluffy dressing. 

  • Keep the person warm. 

Watch our video to learn how to Cool, Call, Cover safely. 

When to get medical help 

Go to A&E or seek urgent medical advice if the burn: 

  • Is large or deep (bigger than the person’s hand) 

  • Causes white or charred skin 

  • Affects the face, hands, feet, arms, legs or genitals 

  • Is a chemical or electrical burn 

Seek help immediately if the person: 

  • Has other injuries or suffering from smoke inhalation 

  • Is going into shock – signs include cold, clammy skin, sweating, rapid, shallow breathing, and weakness or dizziness. 

  • Is pregnant, over the age of 60 or under the age of five. 

  • Has a serious medical condition 

See recovering from burns and scalds (opens in new window). for information on how serious burns are treated. 

For more information - NHS website (opens in new window). 

Preventing burns and scalds 

Simple steps can reduce the risk, especially for children and older people: 

  • Test bath water and run cold water first 

  • Keep hot drinks and pans out of reach 

  • Turn saucepan handles away from the edge 

  • Keep electrical items and hot appliances out of reach 

  • Use fire guards for open fires and heaters 

  • Store matches, lighters and chemicals safely 

  • Never leave children unattended near heat or cooking 

  • Install thermostatic mixing valves in all hot water outlets. 

  • Don’t allow children near BBQs or garden chemicals. 

  • Don’t allow children near fireworks. 

Hot drink safety (SafeTea) 

Hot drinks can scald for up to 30 minutes. 

  • Keep hot drinks out of reach of children 

  • Avoid holding or nursing a child while drinking something hot 

  • Place drinks at the back of surfaces 

  • Create a ‘SafeTea zone’ away from children where you and members of the family and visitors can drink hot drinks away from young children. 

  • Never pass hot drinks over children 

  • Do not place hot drinks on table cloths or material that hangs down so that  small child can reach and pull it. 

For more information 

Please use the following links to find out more about National Burn Awareness Day and the SafeTea campaign. 


Last updated: Wednesday, 20 May 2026


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