hen someone is burned, proper first aid can shorten the recovery period or at least help make the burn less painful. First-degree burns damage the top layer of skin (reddened skin). Second-degree burns damage the skin more deeply (blistering). Third-degree burns damage the full thickness of the skin (white or charred looking skin). When burns happen, take the following first-aid steps. 1. Bathe the burned area in cold, running water or hold a clean towel soaked in cold water over the area until the pain lessens. 2. Remove any rings, watches or tight clothing before the area begins to swell. Raise a burned arm or leg higher than the heart to reduce swelling. 3. Don’t put butter or any ointment on the wound. Doing so can keep it from draining. 4. Cover the burn with sterile gauze. Never use adhesive bandages or fluffy material, and don’t break blisters. FOR SERIOUS BURNS: Call 911 or your local emergency number. Follow the burn guidelines above. Don’t remove any clothing that sticks to the wound. If possible, protect any exposed, burned areas with a clean sheet or towel soaked in cold water. Any burn on the face, eyes, hands, feet or genitals may require a doctor’s care. Preventing Shock: A victim with serious burns will usually go into shock. Shock can lead to collapse, coma or death. To prevent this, make the person lie flat. If it’s cold, place blankets over a protective sheet to keep the victim warm until emergency help arrives. Be reassuring, but don’t give any food. Give frequent small sips of cool water to combat fluid loss as long as the person is conscious and not vomiting. © Your HealthStyle, 1999.