A Briefing on Burns

What's the difference between a minor and major burn?  How should I treat them differently?  Well, here is the breakdown:

Minor
1st degree- outer layer of skin is burned, skin is usually red with swelling,
sometimes painful
2nd degree- first & second layer of skin is burned through, blisters develop on
splotchy red skin, severe pain & swelling

For 1st & 2nd degree burns smaller than 3 inches in diameter treat as a minor burn

Do- Cool the burn for 10-15mins, with running water until pain is gone
Do-Cover loosely with gauze to keep air out
Do-Take a pain reliever

Don’t- Immerse in very cold water or ice
Don't- Use fluffy cotton that will get lint into wound
Don't- Apply butter or ointments -they can cause infection
Don't- Break blisters

Major
3rd Degree- all layers of skin, may be black or appear dry and white, could have
difficulty breathing

Do- Call 911 & until help arrives do the following:
Check for signs of breathing.
Perform CPR if necessary
Elevate burnt parts of body so that they are raised above heart level
Cover the area of the burn with a cool sterile cloth or bandage
Don’t- Remove burnt clothing
Don’t immerse large severe burns in cold water

If you have more applicable insight or a story in case-in-point, feel free to leave a comment!

info. taken from the www.mayoclinic.com  
contributed by Andrea Burt

The Day Be Ready Herriman 4th Was Born

What would be a more appropriate date to begin our blog than that of our state's birthday (okay, one hour early)?  July 24th, 2011 marks the beginning of our virtual approach to emergency preparedness, like the pioneers started a new adventure of settling untamed land.  We begin this adventure with high hopes that many will lend their abilities and services to the community members of our area so we can all achieve a more safe and sound experience in case of disaster. 

Jessica Tidwell is the Emergency Preparedness Specialist for the Fort Herriman Stake, with assistance from Andrea Burt in the Timbergate apartments, and I, Natalie Griffith, assist over the north Tuscany development.  We've been called, sustained, and set-apart to serve in these capacities and look forward to doing our part to magnify our duties. 

Please post your comments often so we can clarify and enhance this learning experience for all.    Our intention is to keep preparedness at the forefront of your mind so you will take the action necessary to become sufficiently ready for any type of emergency. 

The topics we will cover include (but are not limited to):

• Natural Disaster Do's and Don'ts
• First Aid for Pros
• Fun with Food Storage
• Insights from Area Experts (like Dr. Poor, and Professor Edwards)

You'll enjoy a new take on old news BE READY Herriman 4th (that means YOU)!