First Degree burns   involve only the outer layer of skin.  The skin is dry, painful and tender to touch.  This type of burn can come from a hot water bottle, a heating pad or a mild sunburn.    · Immediately put the affected part under running cold water, or wrap cold wet clothes on the burn until the pain decreases. · Cover with a clean, dry gauze dressing for protection. Second Degree burns involve several layers of skin.  You may see blisters, swelling and red skin.  The victim will be in a lot of pain.  An example of a second degree burn would be skin scalded by hot water. · Immerse in cold water or apply cold wet clothes immediately.  DO THIS BEFORE YOU CALL FOR HELP! · Gently blot the area dry.  Don’t rub as this may break the blister, opening it to infection. · If the burn is on an arm or leg, keep it elevated as much as possible. · Keep in mind that second degree burns usually heal within a few weeks. Third Degree burns  involve all layers of the skin and any underlying tissue or organs.  They are less painful than second degree because the nerves are destroyed.   But the damage to the body is greater.    · DO NOT remove any clothing near or at the site of the burn. · DON’T apply cold water or medication to the burn. · If burns are on arms or legs, keep elevated above the heart.  If burns are on face, check to make sure the person isn’t having trouble breathing. · Get help right away! Ready for the First Degree about Burns? Burns kill the skin by layer and are classified as first, second or third degree depending on the depth, not the amount of pain or the extent of the burn. PAGE NINE Burns from cooking, hot beverages and hot bath water are common accidents.  Burns can be  painful but small burns on adults are rarely serious.  Large and/or severe burns can be very serious—even life threatening.  Before giving first aid for burns, ask yourself: · Is the person in danger of more burns?  For example, if clothing is on fire, help the victim stop, drop and roll. · Is the skin red, swollen, blistered or broken? · What is the person’s age and medical condition?  The elderly and children are at risk for complications from burns.   · How deep or severe is the burn?  Ever wonder what those degrees mean? © 2000 In the Know, Inc.