First Aid Treatment for Burns

First Aid Treatment for Burns

First Aid Treatment for burns, (any second degree or third degree burn requires medical attention ASAP!)
  • Remove the person from the hazardous area.
  • Cool down the burn site for at least 15-20 min under running water – this is the golden rule.
  • Meat (flesh) continues to cook even when it is removed from the heat. By running water over the area you are stopping the burning process.
    It doesn’t matter how big or small the burn is, it has to be cooled down under running water.
  • If it is a big area, stand in the shower, or alternatively, use a hose pipe or bottled water to simulate a constant flow of water.
  • Burnshield® or Hydrogel® is the only safe treatment to apply to any wound, after it has cooled down.
  • You can cover the Burnshield®  with plastic wrap to keep the shield moist and keep it in place only after the burn has cooled down properly! Not less than an hour after cooling with water and application of the Burnshield®.
    This will seal off the Burnshield® (keep it moist and prevent it drying out).
    Re-assess the burn, and keep the Burnshield® or Hydrogel® dressing moist for 12 -24 hours.

A few things you should never do:

  • Do not break or pop a blister.
  • Do not remove clothes that cover the burnt skin.
  • Do not apply anything but Burnshield® or Hydrogel® to the wound.
  • Do not apply ice to the burnt area.
  • Do not put the burnt area in a bucket of water, the heat will disperse in the water, and there won’t be any cooling down of the burn.
  • Do not use tin foil or plastic wrap to keep Burnshield®  or Hydrogel®  in place if the wound has not been cooled off completely ( the burn can intensify if sealed off with plastic and not cooled off).
  • Do not delay to seek medical attention.
  • If you do not have Burnshield®, wet a cotton pillow slip, put it over the wound, followed by plastic wrap to prevent the pillow slip from drying out and go to the nearest medical facility.

Managing a Diabetic Emergency

A quiet coffee break turned critical in seconds.Trauma nurse Catherine Rodwell shares how quick action—and a teaspoon of syrup—helped save a life during a sudden diabetic emergency. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone who wants to be prepared, this story is a powerful reminder of why first aid

Read More »

Clear Vision: Eye-Injury Emergency Steps

Your eyes are delicate and exposed, making them especially vulnerable to sudden injuries — whether from chemical splashes or small foreign objects like dust, metal shavings, or wood splinters. Knowing how to respond quickly and correctly can protect vision, reduce damage, and prevent long-term complications. Here’s a simple guide to

Read More »

Strap In for Safety: Master Baby Car Seat Use

A correctly installed, ECE-approved car seat is your child’s first line of defense on the road. Misuse or poor installation contributes to preventable injuries every year. This guide reflects South African standards based on ECE R44/04 and R129 regulations, so you can choose, install, and adjust your baby’s car seat

Read More »

Why Everyone Should Learn CPR

In an emergency, the actions you take in the first few minutes can mean the difference between life and death. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is one of the simplest and most effective ways to help save a life — and yet, many people still don’t feel confident enough to use it

Read More »

Who & When to Call Emergency Services

In an emergency, every second counts — but knowing when to call for help can make all the difference. Whether it’s a medical crisis, accident, or unexpected health scare, many people hesitate or second-guess themselves in the moment. That delay can be dangerous. The truth is, it’s better to call

Read More »

Top 5 CPR Myths Debunked!

When it comes to CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), misinformation is everywhere. These myths can prevent people from stepping in to help when every second counts. At Survival CPR, we believe knowledge is power—and in this case, it could be life-saving.   Separate fact from fiction and empower yourself to act confidently

Read More »

About

Welcome Founded in 2001 by Sister Catherine Rodwell, a seasoned trauma and ICU expert with extensive experience in medical evacuations across Africa, Survival® CPR is dedicated to empowering individuals with life-saving skills. Her mission is to equip parents, nannies, childminders, teachers, and employees with the knowledge and skills to respond

Read More »

Scholars CPR and First Aid Course

Scholars CPR and First Aid Course Children can save lives! Our Scholars CPR and First Aid Course is tailor-made for young children from the age of 9 to 18. This vital course will enable young and older children to know how to handle an accident or emergency involving children and

Read More »

Baby and Child CPR and First Aid Course

Baby & Child CPR and First Aid Course Our Baby and Child CPR and First Aid Course is tailor-made for parents. This vital course will teach a parent how to handle an accident or emergency involving babies and children. You will learn how to handle all First Aid emergencies as

Read More »