Bonfire night safety

Bonfire night is an exciting time for everyone with a multitude of colours flashing across the night sky and explosions reverberating long into the night.  For the vast majority, fireworks and bonfires are fun but every year a small number of people suffer from burns as a result.  More often than not they are just minor burns so the following offers a brief guide on how to deal with them and so prevent your night from being ruined.
 

Sit or lie the casualty down if possible and flood the affected area with cold water (or any other cold drink) for at least ten minutes.  Remove any clothing that is covering the burn, unless it is sticking, and remove any constricting items.
  
Place a sterile non fluffy dressing over the burn, if one is not available you can use cling film (discard the first two turns from the roll first) or even a clean plastic bag.  This will help protect against infection and prevent fluid loss that could result in dehydration or shock.
  

Do not touch the burn, burst any blisters or apply any lotions, ointments or adhesive tape.  If the burn is to the face then do not cover it up, instead keep cooling the area with water.
  

If a burn that is blistering covers an area of the body greater than 5%, or if a burn that appears pale and charred covers an area greater than 1%, seek immediate medical attention.  As a guide, the area covering the palm of your hand and fingers is approximately 1% of your total body area.  You should also seek medical attention if the burn is to a child; if it is to the hands, face, feet or genitals; or if the burn extends all the way round a limb.  If you are in any doubt then seek medical attention.
  

Fireworks and bonfires need not be dangerous if managed properly and good safety precautions will normally negate any need for first aid.  This includes standing well back, never returning to a firework that has not gone off and always supervising children.
 
Enjoy your bonfire night wherever you are, and stay safe.