What is the first thing you do when burn your hand?

Immediately run cool (not cold) water over the burn for at least 20 minutes.

This will help to cool the skin, reduce pain, and prevent further tissue damage.

Do not:

- Apply ice or ice water to the burn. This can cause further tissue damage.

- Apply butter or ointment to the burn. This can trap heat and bacteria in the burn.

- Break blisters. This can increase the risk of infection.

After flushing the burn with cool water:

- Gently pat the burn dry with a clean cloth.

- Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin or Polysporin, to the burn.

- Cover the burn with a sterile bandage or gauze.

- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve pain.

- If the burn is severe, seek medical attention.

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