What is the first step when treating a burn?

Cooling the burn with running water for at least 10 minutes is the recommended first step in burn treatment because it helps to reduce the temperature of the burned skin and stop the burning process. This initial cooling can minimize tissue damage and can help to alleviate pain. Using cool (not cold) running water effectively helps to soothe the affected area, decrease swelling, and may also help prevent further damage to the skin.

Applying ice directly to the burn can cause additional damage to the skin and lead to frostbite. Covering the burn with a bandage may be necessary after proper cooling, but it should not be the first action taken. Notifying emergency services is important for severe burns but is not the immediate first step in the treatment process. Therefore, cooling the burn is essential for proper initial care.