What is the recommended first aid treatment for a first degree burn?

The recommended first aid treatment for a first-degree burn is to immerse the burned area in cool water. This helps to cool the burn, alleviating pain and reducing inflammation. The application of cool water can also help to prevent further skin damage and can promote healing by decreasing the temperature of the burn site, thus minimizing swelling and discomfort.

It is important to differentiate between various types of burns. A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of skin, causing redness and mild pain, but typically does not result in blisters or severe tissue damage. Therefore, cooling the area is a straightforward and effective initial response.

Once the burn is cooled, other steps such as applying a topical antibiotic or covering with a dry bandage may be advisable for protection, but they are not the first action to take. This is why immersing the burn in cool water is the most appropriate first step in treating a first-degree burn.