What is the first step in treating a severe burn?

The first step in treating a severe burn is to cool the burn under running water. This process is critical because it helps to reduce the temperature of the skin and prevents further tissue damage. Cooling a burn can also alleviate pain and minimize swelling. Ideally, this should be done as quickly as possible, ideally within minutes after the injury occurs. Cooling the burned area with running water for at least 10-20 minutes is a recommended first aid measure.

Applying butter to the burn area is an outdated and unsafe practice that can trap heat and increase the risk of infection. Covering the burn with a wet cloth is also beneficial, but this should be done after the burn has been cooled with running water. Dressing and bandaging the burn is important for protecting the area, but it should come after the initial cooling step to ensure that the burn is treated properly. Thus, cooling the burn is the most critical and immediate action to take.