1 Move victim inside
2Cool burn
3Give fluid
4 Apply lotion
50 FIRST AID
Sunburn
Ultraviolet rays in sunlight can damage cells in the outer layer of human skin, causing soreness, redness, and blistering. Skin can burn after just 30 minutes of exposure to the sun and sunburn is most likely to occur in the middle of the day, though symptoms may not develop immediately. The aims of treatment are to move the victim out of the sun, to cool the affected area, and to apply soothing lotions or creams.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
• Very red, hot skin
• Soreness
• Swelling
• Blistering
• Possible signs of heatstroke( p. 52)
TREATING SUNBURN
1 Move victim inside
• If the victim is outside, move him into the shade or indoors.
2Cool burn
• Get the victim into a cold bath, or apply damp towels or cold water to the burn for at least 10 minutes.
Cool the burned areas
3Give fluid
• See that the victim sips plenty of cold water while you cool his skin.
Ensure that he takes small sips of fluid
4 Apply lotion
• Gently smooth calamine lotion or after-sun cream onto the burned areas. Reapply as necessary.
! Important
• If the skin is badly blistered, advise the victim to see a doctor.
• If the victim has severe sunburn and heatstroke( p. 52), call 911.
Put cream on burn