These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Stop the burning
Get them away from the heat. If clothes are on fire: stop, drop and roll, or smother with a blanket.
For an electrical burn, turn off the power before you touch them. Stay away from downed lines.
For a chemical burn, brush off dry chemical and rinse with lots of running water for at least 20 minutes.
New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center (UNM)
Poison control
800-222-1222
· 24/7
2Cool it
Run cool (not ice cold) water over the burn for 10-20 minutes.
Take off rings, watches and tight clothes near the burn before it swells. Don't pull off clothing stuck to the skin.
Cover loosely with a clean, dry cloth or plastic wrap.
Don't use ice, butter, oil or toothpaste. Don't pop blisters.
3Call 911 or go to the ER if
The burn is large (bigger than their palm), deep, white, brown or black, or charred.
It is on the face, hands, feet, groin or a joint, or was caused by electricity or chemicals.
They have trouble breathing, a hoarse voice, or burns in the nose or mouth from smoke.
The person is a baby, a small child or an older adult.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7
Gila Regional Medical Center
Emergency room
575-538-4000 · 24/7:
911
1313 E. 32nd St., Silver City · 24/7
4Small burns
After cooling, keep it clean and covered. Take a pain reliever if needed.
Watch for infection: more redness, swelling, pus or fever. Then see a doctor.
At the Gospel MissionAsk at the Mission for bandages.
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.