Learn about burns
According to the National Fire Protection Association, roughly half of the injuries involving grills are thermal burns.
Of the approximately 16,600 patients who visit emergency rooms for injuries involving grills each year, 8,200 are treated for thermal burns.
UPMC HealthBeat notes that thermal burns typically occur when a person touches flames or fire or hot molten liquid or steam.
Thermal burns also can result when touching a hot object, such as cooking pans, irons or heated appliances. WebMD advises burn sufferers to call 911 immediately if the burn penetrates all layers of the skin; if the skin appears leathery or charred, with white, brown or black patches; or if the hands, feet, face, or genitals are burned. In addition, call 911 immediately if infants or seniors suffer any burns, even if the burn does not appear severe. Treatment will depend on the severity and location of the burn.
In the immediate aftermath of a thermal burn, Stanford Children’s Health advises cooling the affected area with cold water or a cold compress until the pain is reduced or alleviated.
Avoid breaking any blisters that form, and protect the burn with a dry, sterile gauze bandage or with a clean bed sheet or cloth.
Do not attempt to remove clothing that is stuck to the burned area.
In such instances, cut around the clothing and leave the burn intact. Resist any temptation to apply ointments, oils or sprays to the burned area, as these should only be applied when prescribed by a doctor.