                          SUBMITTED BY

                        KENNETH P. SOBEL
                      SAFETY ADMINISTRATOR
                       CITY OF LOS ANGELES
                         (213) 485-4691
                       FAX (213) 485-8765
_________________________________________________________________


No. 61                                             September 1989
                       FIRST AID FOR BURNS

The following is an important safety and first aid message from Dr.
Jothan Staley, Medical Director.

Burns are one of the leading causes of accidental death in the
United States.  Every year, approximately 8,000 persons lose their
lives in fires.  You, or someone in your office, could be called
upon to administer first aid to a burn victim.  What you do while
waiting for medical assistance could prevent additional injury or
save a life.  Prompt and specific measures must begin immediately
after the burning material has been extinguished and should include
the following:

        1.      Call for paramedic assistance as soon as possible.  Check
          now to be sure that you know how to make an emergency
          call from Centrex telephones.

        2.      Cut away clothing over the burn area and other areas that
          may be a source of heat.

        3.      Wet the burn area with cool water from the tap.  This
          should be done again even if water was used to put out
          the fire.  Wetting the skin lowers the temperature of the
          burn area and limits additional damage due to heat.  Do
          not use ice water or butter, since additional tissue
          damage or hypothermia may occur.

        4.      Give general supportive first aid and/or CPR if
          indicated.

        5.      Keep the person on a flat surface, since shock is a
          frequent complication.

        6.      If the burn area is on the arms or legs, elevate to
          inhibit swelling.

Following these steps will reduce or prevent additional injury
until medical assistance can be obtained. 


                                                 
______________________________
Kenneth P. Sobel
Safety Administrator