Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service shares vital three C’s of burn care to mark National Burn Awareness Day

Life-saving burn care advice has been shared by a fire service, to mark National Burn Awareness Day.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is supporting the day, which aims to prevent burn injuries from happening across the country.

Nottinghamshire is in the top four areas within the UK for burn and scald injuries, with the main cause being hot drinks and other fluids, and electrical cooking appliances such as hobs.

Burn injuries are among the most painful and debilitating injuries that can occur, affecting individuals and their families.

They can happen in an instant, often leading to severe physical and emotional consequences — but immediate care can make a significant difference, and even save lives.

In May 2022, 81-year-old Derek suffered burns in his daughters back garden, due to an out-of-control bonfire.

Luckily, a passer-by noticed Derek in distress and got out of his car to help.

Derek said: “As the gentlemen was running towards me, he asked his partner to call 999. When he got to me, he started to do first aid and cool me down with cold water.

“After I got transported to hospital, I was told that the twenty minutes tepid water treatment saved my life. It was painful, and cold, but my case just proves how important it is.

“I would like to thank the gentlemen who started first aid with me until the medical professionals arrived on scene — it’s hard to say what the outcome would have been if he hadn’t had been there — and of course, thank you to the amazing emergency services for their response.”

The fire service has worked with Kristina Stiles, ambassador of the Children’s Burns Trust and burns nurser specialist, to ensure everyone knows the three C’s of burn care.

These are:

Cool — If someone suffers a burn, it’s crucial to cool the area immediately. Remove any clothing, nappies, or jewellery near the burn. Use cool running water for at least twenty minutes as this helps reduce pain and prevents further skin damage.

Call — If the burn is larger than a 50p coin, or you’re unsure how to treat it, don’t hesitate to call NHS 111 or your local GP. In an emergency, always call 999.

Cover — After cooling the burn, gently cover it with clingfilm or a clean, non-fluffy dressing or cloth until the burn is seen by a healthcare professional. This protects the area from infection and further injury.

Kristina said: “In 2023, 9,939 adults and 8,551 children were burned or scalded. These figures are huge, and we are working with many organisations around the country to ensure incidents that cause severe burns and injuries are prevented.

“It is extremely important that everyone knows what to do if they were having to treat a burn or scald. We encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the three C’s, because you never know when you might need it.”