Burns are among the most painful and dangerous injuries a person can sustain. Fire burns are common and can be mild or life-threatening, depending on their severity and location. Understanding the different types of burns caused by fire, how to manage them initially and when to seek medical help can make a significant difference in recovery.
In this blog, we will walk you through the classification of burns, explain quick first aid methods and touch upon how health insurance, like group health insurance, can be beneficial when it comes to treatment costs.
What are fire burns?
A fire burn occurs when heat from flames damages the skin and other body tissues. Burns can affect the outer layer of the skin, penetrate deeper into the tissues or even impact muscles and bones in severe cases.
Burns from fire are usually caused by:
- Direct contact with open flames
- Hot smoke inhalation
- Explosions
- Accidental fires at home or the workplace
The extent of skin damage and the extent of body involvement determine the consequences of a burn.
Types of fire burns
There are many types of burns, but most of the time, fire burns are thermal burns. These occur when you come into contact with hot surfaces, such as steam, flames or boiling liquids. The following are the various fire burn severity levels:
First-degree burns
These are the mildest forms and affect only the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis).
Symptoms:
- Redness
- Minor inflammation
- Pain
- Dry, peeling skin after a few days
Examples: Mild sunburn or brief contact with a flame.
Treatment:
- Cold compress
- Aloe vera or moisturisers
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
Second-degree burns
These burns impact both the outer layer (epidermis) and the second layer (dermis) of the skin.
Symptoms:
- Blisters
- Swelling
- Red, splotchy skin
- Intense pain
Examples: Accidental scalding from hot liquids or prolonged contact with flames.
Treatment:
- Don’t pop blisters
- Apply burn creams
- Keep the area clean
- Seek medical help if the area is large or affects the hands, feet or face
Third-degree burns
These are severe burns that go through both layers of skin and damage underlying tissues.
Symptoms:
- White or charred skin
- Numbness (nerves are destroyed)
- Waxy appearance
Examples: Direct and prolonged exposure to fire or burning objects.
Treatment:
- Immediate medical emergency
- Requires hospitalisation
- Skin grafts may be needed
Fourth-degree burns
This is the most extreme form in the classification of burns, extending into muscles, tendons and bones.
Symptoms:
- Blackened, charred skin
- No sensation
- Muscle and bone exposure
Examples: Severe house fires, industrial accidents.
Treatment:
- Emergency medical intervention
- Often requires surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care
Quick first aid tips to treat fire burns
Before rushing to the hospital, providing the right first aid can limit damage and reduce pain. Here's what you can do:
For minor burns (first-degree and small second-degree burns)
- Cool the burn: Use cool (not cold) water for 10-15 minutes
- Cover the area: Use a sterile, non-adhesive bandage
- Avoid home remedies: Don’t apply butter, oil or toothpaste
- Hydrate: Encourage drinking water to prevent dehydration
For major burns (third-degree and beyond)
- Call emergency services immediately
- Do not remove burnt clothing stuck to the skin
- Cover with a clean cloth or sheet to prevent infection
- Keep the person warm and calm
Inhalation burns
- Move the person to fresh air immediately
- Check for breathing
- Perform CPR if needed
When to see a doctor
You should seek medical help immediately if:
- The burn is larger than three inches
- Burns are on the face, hands, feet or genitals
- You suspect an infection (increased pain, redness, fever)
- There are breathing difficulties due to smoke inhalation
- You’re unsure about the severity of the burn
Professional medical evaluation is crucial even if the burn seems manageable. Minor issues can become severe without timely treatment.
Having group insurance or group health insurance through your employer can ease the burden of hospital expenses in such cases. These policies usually cover emergency hospitalisation, surgeries, and follow-up treatments required for burns.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of burns and how to respond can help save lives and prevent long-term complications. From first-degree to fourth-degree, each level of fire burn demands different care and medical attention.
Being prepared with knowledge and a solid health insurance plan, such as group health insurance or group insurance, can offer timely treatment and financial security. Always act fast, follow proper first aid steps and never hesitate to consult a doctor.
FAQ
- Can I treat all fire burns at home?
No. While minor first-degree burns can be treated at home, second-degree burns and beyond should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- How long does it take to heal from a fire burn?
First-degree burns may heal in 3-5 days, while second-degree burns can take up to three weeks. Severe burns require months and possibly multiple treatments.
- Is it safe to pop burn blisters?
No. This increases the risk of infection. Always keep the area clean and let a medical professional handle it.
- What should I do if someone gets burns during a fire accident?
Call emergency services, cool the burn if safe, cover the area with a clean cloth, and keep the person calm.
- Are burns from electrical fires treated differently?
Yes. electrical burns may cause internal damage even if the skin looks fine. Always get checked by a doctor.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. Please read the sales brochure / policy wordings carefully for detailed information about on risk factors, terms, conditions and exclusions. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.