Mild burns
At the cottage, people heat the fireplace and sauna, gather around the campfire, barbecue and light candles.
Mild, first-degree burns can be treated at the cottage. A first-degree burn is superficial: there is pain and redness, but no blisters.
First aid:
Cool the burn site with cool water for 10-20 minutes. You can also place a moist bandage or cloth on the pain site. You can take paracetamol for the pain.
You can also buy bandages for burns at the pharmacy. Change the bandage every couple of days and do not let it get wet.
Serious burns always require medical attention.
Superficial burns usually heal on their own in a few weeks.
In second and third degree burns, there are blisters at the burn sites and the damage extends into the subcutaneous tissues. They always require medical attention.
Stepping on a nail
The cottage is a playground where the hammer swings as you tinker with the dock and build the terrace.
If you step on a nail, the wound may not bleed very much, but there may still be damage and bleeding inside the tissue.
In summer, the risk of wounds becoming infected increases. Check that your tetanus vaccination is up to date.
First aid:
Clean the wound with clean water and remove any visible dirt from the wound area with clean fingers. Protect the wound with a plaster or wound dressing. Replace the dressing or plaster as necessary. Rinse and dry the wound when changing the plaster.
If the wound is bleeding heavily, apply pressure to the bleeding area with your finger or hand. Cover the wound with a pressure dressing and help the injured person to sit or lie down if necessary.
Deep puncture wounds require medical attention.
