Australia Day long weekend celebrations are not complete without sharing a barbecue with friends and families. With the potential for burns and scalds on the rise, St John Ambulance (Qld) reminds Queenslanders of the correct management of burns.
First aid expert Darryl Clare said data indicated as many as 90 percent of people do not know the correct first aid treatment for a burn, which can result in increased pain and bad scarring.
“Burns and scalds injuries, such as those sustained from the family barbecue, are one of the three most common injuries suffered by Australians each year,” Darryl said.
In fact, more than 75 per cent of people will not run water over a burn for the correct length of time.
“Cool the burn under gentle running water for at least 20 minutes,” he said.
Data also reveals other shortfalls in burns management, such as using ice, aloe vera and a cold compress on burns.
“Stay well away from lotions, ointments and ice, as they do not assist in treating the burn and, in some cases, can make the burn more severe,” Darryl said.
Darryl advised that the best management for burns was to remove any clothing and jewellery from the burned area to maximise the cooling process.
“Do not attempt to rip off or cut clothing that has stuck to the burn, as this can cause further damage,” Darryl warned.
After cooling the burn under running water for 20 minutes, cover the burn with a non-adherent dressing, a plastic wrap or loosely applied aluminium foil.
“Seek medical advice if the burn is larger than a 20 cent piece or is on the face, hands, feet or groin area.”
On average, about 65 per cent of all burns are on the hands or fingers.
“Spending some time before guests arrive for Australia Day celebrations to brush up on your first aid skills could mean the difference between a trip to the bathroom sink or a trip to the doctor or emergency room,” Darryl said.
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Media contact: Angela Madden on (07) 3253 0579