How to Treat Chemical Burns

Causes of chemical burns can range from battery acid to hair remover. Whenever you use chemicals around the house, follow directions carefully and take recommended precautions. If a chemical burn occurs, follow these steps to administer first aid and get professional medical attention if necessary.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Remove the cause of the burn from the skin. Rinse skin under warm running water for at least 15 minutes. If the chemical that caused the burn is in powdered form, brush it away before rinsing. If you call an ambulance, continue rinsing the skin until help arrives.
2. Take off clothing and jewelry that comes in contact with the chemical. Don't stop flushing the skin while you remove these items.
3. Wrap the burned area with a loose, dry, sterile dressing. Use a clean cloth if you don't have a sterile wrap.
4. Wash eyes out with water if the chemical comes in contact with eyes. Lie the victim down on the floor or place her head over a sink. Hold the lids open and pour cool water over the eyes. Flush eyes for at least 15 minutes before you seek medical attention.
5. Seek medical attention if you observe signs of shock, the burn is a second- or third-degree burn larger than a quarter or the burn is located in the eyes, groin, hands, feet or face.