Remove all smoldering clothing and objects that retain heat.

Cut and gently lift away any clothing covering the burned area. Do not pull clothing over the burned area.

CAUTION: Do not cool the burned area with water on any burn greater than 10 percent body surface area. Over cooling of any burn can cause the patient to become rapidly hypothermic.

CAUTION: Do not immerse a third degree burn.

a. Stuck Clothing.

If clothing is stuck to the burned area, cut around the clothing and do not disturb the stuck clothing.

b. Jewelry.

If the casualty is wearing jewelry on a burned arm or hand, remove the jewelry and put it in his pocket. Burns often cause swelling and the jewelry may have to be cut off later if it is not removed now. Tell the casualty what you are doing and why.

c. Chemical Environment.

If you are in a chemical environment, do not expose the wound. Apply the dressing over the protective garments.