RFSymptoms: Safety netting advice
AdultsBurns and scalds
DATE LAST REVIEWED: 05/11/2026
When to seek further review
- Follow the dressing-check and follow-up arrangements given at the consultation. Small burns often heal in about 2 weeks; arrange review if healing is delayed.
- Get urgent advice today for increasing pain, spreading redness, swelling, pus, a bad smell or fever.
- Call NHS 111 if unsure how serious the burn is or how to care for it. Young children need a lower threshold for medical assessment.
- If a new burn happens, cool it under cool running water for 20 minutes. Do not put ice on it or remove clothing stuck to the skin.
- For a burn needing assessment or a problem with a burn dressing, call NHS 111 for advice on the right local service. Depending on the injury, this may be an Urgent Treatment Centre, Emergency Department or burns service. Follow any review plan already given by the treating team.
- Do not wait for the suggested review time if symptoms become worse, new symptoms appear, or you are worried.
- If you need medical advice and are unsure which service can help, call NHS 111. This includes when your GP is closed or you cannot get the help you need. NHS 111 can direct you to an appropriate local service. You can call even if you are not sure whether symptoms are serious.
When to get emergency help
(Immediately dial 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department)
- A large or deep burn, or skin that looks white, charred or numb.
- A burn to the face, genitals or bottom, or a burn caused by chemicals or electricity.
- Smoke inhalation, burns around the mouth or nose, a hoarse voice, or difficulty breathing after a fire.
- Faintness, cold clammy skin or collapse after a burn.
- Severe difficulty breathing, such as gasping or being unable to speak normally.
- New confusion or not making sense when speaking.
- Being very difficult to wake.
- Collapse or loss of consciousness.
- Blue, grey, unusually pale or blotchy skin or lips, especially when feeling very unwell.
How to spot sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to an infection. It can get worse quickly. If someone is seriously unwell and may have sepsis, call 999 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Do not wait for every sign, a high temperature or a rash.
An unwell child under 5 who has not had a pee or wet nappy for 12 hours needs emergency assessment. If you are unsure and there are no emergency signs, call NHS 111 for advice.
Sources
- NHS - Burns and scaldshttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/burns-and-scalds/
- NHS - Sepsishttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sepsis/
- NHS - When to use NHS 111https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/urgent-and-emergency-care-services/when-to-use-111/