Second-degree burns may be treated as mild burns, unless a large portion of the victim’s body is covered by the injury. Second-degree burns affect the epidermis and second layer of the skin – the superficial (papillary) dermis. Also called superficial partial thickness burns, second-degree burns are identifiable by redness, swelling, blanches and clear blisters.

To treat a second-degree burn, you may allow cool water to run over it for a short amount of time. Like a first-degree burn, cooling the injury may help reduce pain and swelling. If necessary, you may apply a cool compress (made with damp cloth) to the injury. A cool compress allows heat to escape the injury and reduces pain and swelling.

Second-degree burns may take several weeks to heal. Because second-degree burns do not involve nerve damage, they can be extremely painful.

Third-degree burns are very serious – even life-threatening. Third-degree burns extend through the entirety of the dermis and are identifiable by their stiff texture and brown coloring and may feel dry and leathery to the touch.

If you encounter a third-degree burn victim, do not attempt to remove any clothing touching the burn. Call for medical help immediately. To treat a third-degree burn victim, elevate the injury above the victim’s heart. Third-degree burns may cause the victim to go into shock. It is imperative that ice is never applied to a major burn.

Fourth-degree burns extend through all layers of the skin and may involve damage to muscles, tissue, ligaments, fat and bones. Fourth-degree burns are painless and may appear charred or black. Major burns (third- and fourth-degree injuries) may result in severe impairment, amputation and significant scarring. In extreme cases, major burns may cause gangrene and death. It is crucial to have a burn accident lawyer on your side to seek the maximum amount of compensation while you recover.