Burns and Freezer Burns (Frostbite): First Aid You Should Know

Burns and Freezer Burns (Frostbite): First Aid You Should Know

When it comes to burns, every second counts. Whether it’s from a hot plate, a campfire, or even a gas bottle, knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference.

At Lovell Rigs First Aid Supplies, we believe in being prepared — because sometimes the only thing between you and 000 is the kit you carry.

Understanding Burns

A burn happens when heat, electricity, chemicals, or radiation damages the skin and underlying tissue. The severity depends on how deep and how large the affected area is.

Types of burns include:

  • Superficial (First-degree): Red, dry, painful — affects only the top layer of skin.

  • Partial thickness (Second-degree): Red, blistered, and moist.

  • Full thickness (Third-degree): Charred or white skin, often with little pain due to nerve damage.

Immediate First Aid for Burns

  1. Cool the burn immediately.
    Run cool (not cold) water over the burn for 20 minutes. Avoid ice, butter, creams, or oils — these trap heat and worsen tissue damage.

  2. Remove tight items.
    Rings, watches, or clothing near the area should be removed gently before swelling starts.

  3. Cover the burn.
    Use a sterile, non-stick dressing or a clean cloth to protect the area from infection.

  4. Do not pop blisters.
    They protect the wound underneath.

  5. Seek medical attention if the burn is large, on the face, hands, genitals, or over a joint, or if you’re unsure about its severity.

Freezer Burns and Frostbite

Not all burns come from heat. Frostbite, sometimes called “freezer burn,” happens when skin and tissue freeze due to extreme cold or direct contact with substances like dry ice or pressurised gas.

You might encounter this while handling gas bottles, working in cold storage, or being exposed to freezing temperatures outdoors.

First Aid for Frostbite:

  1. Move to a warm, safe place.

  2. Warm the area gradually using cold running water — never hot water or direct heat. This helps stabilise the tissue temperature and prevent further damage.

  3. Do not rub or massage the affected area — this can cause more injury.

  4. Seek medical attention immediately if the skin appears white, waxy, or numb.

Preparedness Matters

In remote or high-risk environments, burns are among the most common and painful injuries. Having a dedicated burns module in your first aid kit can make a world of difference.

The MODULATOR Red Burns Module (20 × 6 × 10 cm) is designed to treat a range of burn injuries, containing hydrogel dressings and essential burn care items in a compact, clearly labelled case — ideal for 4WDers, campers, and workplaces alike.

Final Word

Burns — whether from fire, heat, or cold — need calm, immediate action.
Stay ready, stay safe, and remember:
The kit between you and 000 could save a life.