How to Treat Fire Burns on Human Skin
Treating fire burns on human skin is a process that has to be carefully done. Burns in general can cause severe injuries to the point of death. There are several things you need to do in order to treat a fire burn on human skin. First, know that there are several types of burns: first, second and third degree. These are differentiated by the damage they do. First degree burns only damage the top level of skin, or the epidermis. Second and third degree burns, on the other hand, cause much more damage. These require that you take the person to a hospital sometimes to get treated, whereas lighter fire burns on human skin can be treated at home.
First, stop the burning by getting the person to stop, drop and roll. You can also douse the flames with water, but don't do this if the fire is electrical or the current will be conveyed to you. Also, you can smother the fire with a blanket.
Next, check to see if there are any other injuries than the burn itself. In the case of chemicals, this could mean irritated or infected skin. In the case of a shock, check the person's breathing and pulse to see whether the current has affected them.
For minor burns, soak a cloth in cool (not cold) water and apply it to the burned area. If the burning agent was a substance that remains on the victim, get it off as best as possible and soak the area with water. Place a bandage over the injury, but avoid putting any pressure on it because this could damage the skin. Never use ice as this will contract the blood vessels and cause further damage. If severe bleeding is occurring, use a tourniquet. These are ways to treat fire burns.