Chemical burns occur when caustic or corrosive chemicals come into contact with the skin. It is important that you act immediately since the longer the exposure, the worse the injury.
If a person has suffered a chemical burn on their skin, a rescuer should assess the victim and the environment before calling 9-1-1 or the designated emergency contact. Any dry chemicals should be brushed off with a gloved hand or cloth before the burned area is flushed with large amounts of running water. This may require a safety shower if a large part of the body is burned. Do NOT dab the chemical, as this wastes time flushing the area and potentially endangers your skin. The area should be flushed until emergency services arrive or a toxic-specific solution is available. A dry dressing can be applied to the burn. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the chemical involved should also be located, but not before flushing the skin. A neutralizing agent should never be applied to the burn.
