On the 5th of November, celebrations and fireworks displays will take place across Scotland and Dr Laura Ryan, Medical Director at NHS 24, is asking members of the public to put safety first.
She said: “Fireworks can be a spectacular sight. They are explosions of colour in the sky to be enjoyed by the whole family. However, I must stress that they have the ability to cause serious injury if not used correctly.
“I would urge people to attend an organised display, rather than having their own. However, if a party is being held at home it’s important that people know how to treat any injuries.
“Depending on how serious a burn is, it may be possible to treat it at home. For minor burns, keep the burn clean and don’t burst any blisters that form. Burns that are more serious will require professional medical attention.
“You should go to a hospital A&E department if the burns are large or deep, they have caused the skin to be white and charred or if any of the burns are on the face, hands, arms, feet, legs or genitals that cause blisters.”
For more health advice and information visit NHSinform.scot and search ‘burns and scalds’.
Top tips include:
- Immediately get the person away from the heat source to stop the burning
- Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm running water for 20 minutes, don’t use ice, iced water or any greasy substances, such as butter
- Remove any clothing that is near the burnt area of skin, make sure the person keeps warm – by using a blanket, for example, cover the burn by placing a layer of cling film over it
- Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to treat the pain
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