3rd Degree Burns

The most serious burns involve all layers of the skin and cause permanent tissue damage. Fat, muscle and even bone may be affected. For major burns, call emergency medical help. Until an emergency unit arrives, follow these steps:

1. Don't remove burned clothing. However, do make sure the victim is no longer in contact with smoldering materials or exposed to smoke or heat.

2. Don't immerse large severe burns in cold water. Doing so could cause a drop in body temperature (hypothermia) and deterioration of blood pressure and circulation (shock).

3. Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement). If there is no breathing or other sign of circulation, begin CPR.

4. Elevate the burned body part or parts. Rise above heart level, when possible.

5. Cover the area of the burn. Use a cool, moist, sterile bandage; clean, moist cloth; or moist cloth towels.


Don’t use ice, apply egg whites, butter or ointments to the burn or break the blisters which can cause infection.