Sunburn:
- Cover the skin and move into shade.
- Drink sips of water.
- Cool with cold water or after-sun lotion.
- If severe seek medical advice.
What is sunburn?
Sunburn is caused by too much exposure to the sun, a sunlamp or a sunbed. You can prevent getting sunburn by covering up with light clothing, staying in the shade and regularly applying high factor sunscreen.
Signs and symptoms
Look for:
- reddened skin
- pain in the area of the burn
- later, blistering may appear.
What to do
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Cover the casualty’s skin with lightweight clothing. Move them out of the sun, into the shade, or indoors if possible.
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Encourage them to keep taking sips of cold water.
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You can cool the skin by sponging it gently with cold water.
- If the burn is large you could soak the sore skin in a cold bath or shower for 10 minutes.
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For mild sunburn, calamine lotion or after-sun lotion may help to soothe. Advise the casualty to stay inside or in the shade.
- If the sunburn is severe, for example with blistering, they should seek medical advice.
- The casualty could also suffer from heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Be prepared to treat if necessary.
Blisters
Blisters are common on the feet and can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, but can appear anywhere on the skin. Learn what to look for and what to do.
