How to Treat a Bad Burn When Camping

According to the 2011 factsheet issued by the American Burn Association, there are 3,500 fire and burn deaths every year in the U.S. When you're camping or outdoors in the wilderness, any type of burn should be treated as a severe burn, to avoid infection. Campfires, hot boat motors, and other equipment could be the cause of a bad burn. As hospitals may be too far from camp for you to receive immediate medical attention, it's wise to learn ahead of time how to treat pain, shock, and nerve damage from burns.

Instructions

• 1

  Evaluate the worst part of the burn. Give the burn victim ibuprofen to help with pain and reduce inflammation. Run cool water over the burn for five to 10 minutes, or apply a cool compress for the same length of time if running water is not available.

• 2

  Make the victim lie down flat, and elevate the burn above the level of his heart. Cover the victim with a coat or blanket to prevent shock, and keep the victim hydrated by making him drink plenty of water until medical assistance is possible.

• 3

  Remove clothing that isn't stuck to the skin. Cover the area with a clean cloth or sheet. Separate burned fingers and toes with clean cloths to avoid the seperate burns from drying and sticking together.

• 4

  Do not burst blisters, and apply honey to broken blisters to seal and protect them from bacteria. Call for medical help as soon as the victim is treated, or take the victim to the nearest medical facility if phone service is unavailable.