Minor burns are incredibly common household injuries. Our homes are full of items which can cause burns - hair straighteners, kettles, toasters, electric heaters. The list is endless. Generally, burns are caused by touching something hot which damages the skin. However, they can also be caused by radiation (as an example, from the sun), chemicals, electricity and friction. As well heat, burns can also be caused by the extreme cold - these are known as freeze or ice burns.

Here we are just going to consider minor heat burns

First aid for a minor burn

Step 1: Immediately run the burn under cold running water for a minimum of 10 minutes. If running cold water is not available then improvise. You can use other non-toxic liquids for example cold drinks. Your aim is to cool the burn as quickly and effectively as possible.

Step 2: Expose the affected area and if possible remove anything that could be constricted (watches, jewellery etc.). Do not remove clothing sticking to the burn, instead cool through the clothing. You should however remove clothing around the burn.

Step 3: After cooling the burn you may wish to cover with a non-fluffy dressing/covering. If you have access to a first aid kit, use a non-fluffy sterile dressing. If not then improvise with whatever is available (plastic bag, kitchen clingfilm, a tea-towel etc.). Be careful not to constrict the burn with the dressing, you should leave space for any swelling which may occur.

Step 4: Seek medical advice for anything except the most minor of burns. Call an ambulance if serious or if the burn is near the face/neck as this could cause breathing difficulties.

Serious burns can cause the casualty to go into shock, a condition where the vital organs and tissues do not receive an enough blood supply. Signs of shock include paleness, nausea & vomiting, a weak pulse and cold clammy skin. If you suspect the casualty is going into shock you should lie them down and raise their legs to improve blood flow to the brain and vital organs. An ambulance should be called immediately.

When it comes to burns, there are lots of "housewife's tales" and home-made remedies. In general however you should not:

• Apply toothpaste/butter/spread/anything else to cool the burn
• Burst large blisters
• Apply adhesive dressings or plasters

The reason behind not applying toothpaste or butter is that cool running water is the most effective method to cool a burn, not anything else. However for minor sunburn, you can apply an after-sun lotion as this will sooth the burn safely.