Classification of Burns

• First–degree burns
  These involve only the superficial layers of the skin and evidence themselves by mere reddening. Most sunburn is first degree.
• Second–degree burns
  
  Fire
  These burns involve not only the superficial layers but also the deeper layers of the skin. They are characterized by blisters and by the discharge of serum. Severe sunburns may fall into this category.
• Third–degree burns
  These burns involve all of the layers of the skin and usually have caused complete skin destruction.
• Fourth–degree burns
  These burns not only destroy all layers of the skin but involves the tissues beneath the skin, such as the subcutaneous tissues, muscles, tendons, blood vessels, bone, etc.

Causes of Burns
There are many other types of burns, such as those caused by chemicals, alkalis, extreme cold, or strong acids. Also some burns are caused by electricity or radiations such as x–ray and radioactive substances.
Proper First–aid Treatment for burns

• First–degree burns
  These can be treated by any of the usual ointments that relieve pain and prevent the skin from drying or cracking. Most first–degree burns can be self treated and do not require the advice of a physician unless the general health of the patient is also affected.
• Second–degree burns
  These must be treated by a physician. First–aid measures will include: Immersing the burned area in running cold water for approximately ten minutes. Covering the area with the sterile dressing. Seeing that the patient maintains a large intake of fluids. Cleansing the burned areas with large quantities of water and a mild soap.
• Third–degree burns
  These should never be self treated. As a preliminary measure, dirt should be gently washed off with water and a clean dressing applied. Large quantities of fluids should be given by mouth, and if the patient is in shock, he should be immediately transported to a hospital on a stretcher. Ointments should not be applied to the burned area.
• Fourth–degree burns
  These should be treated in the same manner as third–degree burns.

Should the blisters of the second–degree burn be opened by the patient himself?
No. A physician should treat these blisters. Some physicians open them while others allow them to dry up by themselves.

Application of Ointments to burns
It is perhaps best not to apply an ointment to anything but a mild first degree burn. There are various ways of treating a burn, and many physicians do not believe in the application of ointments. Furthermore, the ointment that the patient prescribes for himself may not be the one the doctor may want to be use. It then becomes difficult to remove it in order to apply the proper medication

Do chemical burns require special treatment?
Yes. It is wise to wash any chemically burned area thoroughly with large quantities of water in order to dilute the chemical and eliminate that which may still be in contact with the skin.

Is any special first–aid treatment indicated for burns of the eye?
Yes. These burns should be irrigated thoroughly with water to dilute the agent that has produced the burn. Medical care should then be sought immediately.

Should butter or homemade remedies or greases be used on burns as a first–aid treatment?
No.