Emergency advice

Baby minor burns and scalds:

  1. Hold under cool running water, at least 20 minutes.
  2. Cover lengthways with cling film.
  3. Seek medical advice. 

As your baby crawls or toddles around exploring the world, they may encounter something that can burn or scald them, such as a hot drink. You should try to cool the burn as quickly as possible before seeking medical advice.

Signs and symptoms

Look for:

  • red skin and swelling
  • crying or pain in the area of the burn
  • blistering may start to appear.

What to do

  1. Baby minor burns and scalds - cool the burn or scald as quickly as possible

    Start cooling the burn or scald as quickly as possible. Hold it under cool running water for at least 20 minutes or until the pain feels better.

    • If there is no water available, you could use cold milk or canned drinks.
  2. Baby minor burns and scalds - remove any jewellery or clothing

    Remove any jewellery or clothing, unless stuck to the burn, before the area begins to swell.

  3. Baby minor burns and scalds - cover the area loosely with cling film

    When the burn has cooled, cover the area loosely with cling film, lengthways.

    • Do not wrap the cling film around the burn as the area needs space to swell.
    • If the burn is on a foot or hand you could use a clean plastic bag.
    • Do not use ice, creams, or gels. They may cause damage and increase the risk of infection.
    • Do not break any blisters that may appear, as this may cause infection.
  4. Baby minor burns and scalds - monitor the baby

    Monitor the baby and always seek medical advice if your baby has a burn or scald.

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Minor burns and scalds in children

If a child has suffered a minor burn or scald, you should try to cool the burn as quickly as possible before seeking medical advice. Find out what to look for and what to do.

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If someone receives a burn or scald, your priority is to cool the burn as quickly as possible. Find out what to look for and what to do.

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