Burns are categorized in several degrees or depth of tissue affected.
These are listed as:
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A - 1st Degree or Superficial; reddening of the skin, sunburn.
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B - 2nd Degree or Partial Thickness; blistering
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C - 3rd Degree or Full Thickness; affecting all skin layers
All burns cause discomfort, and as they increase is severity, will include all levels of burns up to the most severe present.
All electrical burns are considered to be worse than they look externally. ALWAYS DISCONNECT THE POWER BEFORE ATTEMPTING A RESCUE!
Most scene care for burns is supportive and compassionate.
USE ONLY COOL WATER ON BURNS.
DO NOT PUT OINTMENTS, CREAMS, OR SALVES ON BURNS.