Chemical burns

If your casualty is suffering a burn from a chemical, a bleach or acid you should:

• If the burn is severe, dial 999 immediately for urgent help
• Wear protective gloves to prevent contact with the chemical
• Flush the affected area continuously (for at least 20 minutes) with as much clean water as possible
• Try to make sure the water can run off the affected area without pooling on the skin
• If the chemical is dry, brush it off the skin
• Remove any jewellery or clothing that may have been exposed to the chemical
• Stay on the phone until the ambulance arrives and follow any other advice given by the 999 call handler to avoid further injury
• If the burn is minor, take your casualty to hospital for the extent of the burn to be assessed