Summer fun means time outdoors with sunshine, barbecues and adventures, but it also brings an increased risk of burn injuries. Between sunburns, holiday fireworks, campfires and grills, accidents can happen when you least expect it. That’s why it’s critical for families to educate themselves on best practices for burn first aid and prepare with a proper medical kit, whether you’re at home or traveling.
No one wants to imagine their child getting hurt, but tragically, young children are especially vulnerable to burn injuries. According to the American Burn Association, “nearly one-quarter of all burn injuries occur in children under the age of 15. In fact, unintentional fire or burn injuries were the 5th leading cause of injury deaths in the United States for children ages 1-4, and the 3rd for those ages 5-9 in 2015.”
If your child does get burned, it’s important to know what to do. Start by assessing the severity of the burn – first, second or third degree. First degree and sometimes small second degree burns can be treated at home, but third degree burns can be life threatening and always require immediate medical attention.
If the skin is pink and a little swollen but not blistered it’s likely a first degree burn, but if it’s red, blistered and very painful, it’s probably a second degree burn. If the skin is whitish, charred or translucent, or if the skin is peeling off with minimal or no sensation in the area, assume a third degree burn and make an immediate trip to the ER.
The ABA recommends an assessment depending on the location, depth and size of the burn, as well. If the burn is on the face, ears, eyes, hands, feet or genital area, or if it covers an area larger than the size of your palm, seek medical attention.
Assuming you are dealing with a first degree or small second degree burn, begin to stop the burning process by cooling the area with a cool wet compress or running cool (not cold) water for five to ten minutes, until the pain begins to lessen. (Do not apply water for third degree burns, go straight to the hospital for advanced treatment).
Although you may be tempted to apply ice, that may further damage the delicate tissues and is not recommended. It’s also important not to over chill the victim and to stop the cooling process if they start to shiver.
After cooling, be sure to remove any jewelry and clothing around the burned area as soon as possible. These items can irritate the injury and become stuck if the area starts to swell.
Next, wash your hands thoroughly and rinse the burned area with a mild liquid soap. Then cover the burn with a loose sterile gauze, clean, dry cloth, or if you have it, a product like “second skin” – a clear protective bandage commonly used for tattoos – which prevents circulating air from further irritating the wound.
Finally, if needed, administer a child-appropriate over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain control. Have your child drink plenty of fluids that contain electrolytes – such as coconut water – as burns can cause dehydration. Change the dressings regularly and continue to monitor the burn closely for signs of infection.
Usually, small, minor burns will heal within a couple of days without scarring. Apply aloe vera gel during the healing process, or alternately, petroleum jelly, calamine lotion or any other soothing skin ointment. If blisters appear, don’t pop them! Doing so can expose the wound to bacteria and lead to infection. Lastly, make sure your child gets plenty of rest during the recovery process, as burns often cause fatigue.
Importantly, you should seek follow-up medical attention if there are no signs of healing within two to three days, if there is a persistent fever or increased pain, if there is redness or swelling that extends beyond the border of the burn, or visible skin darkening the burn site, or if the burn is giving off a bad odor or is oozing liquid. All of these signs may indicate a possible infection and require a medical evaluation.
With some preparation and proper knowledge, parents can feel confident managing a minor burn and knowing when to seek medical attention. Be proactive with a family medical kit stocked with soap, sterile gauze bandages, second skin and some child-safe pain relievers, and enjoy some peace of mind throughout those sunny days.
Steps to Recovery:
For First- and Small Second-Degree Burns:
- Cool the burn with cool (not cold) water for 5–10 minutes
- Remove jewelry and tight items near the area
- Gently clean with mild soap and water
- Cover loosely with sterile gauze or second skin
- Give an age-appropriate pain reliever (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
- Keep the area clean and monitor for infection
- Use aloe vera gel or petroleum jelly once cooled
- Encourage rest and plenty of fluids
When to Call a Doctor:
- Burn is on the face, hands, feet, groin, eyes, or joints
- Larger than the size of your child’s palm
- No improvement in
- 2–3 days
- Signs of infection: swelling, redness, pus, fever, bad smell
- If it’s a third-degree burn (whitish, charred, or painless skin)
This article appears in Bend Nest Summer 2025.
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