Highland revellers urged to celebrate Bonfire Night safely
Bonfire Night revellers in the Highlands are being reminded to take care and understand how to treat minor burns ahead of this year’s celebrations on November 5.
Along with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, NHS 24 has urged people to attend an organised display but, if going to a home party, to know how to treat any injuries.
NHS 24’s medical director, Professor George Crooks, said: "Bonfire Night is great fun but it’s important that anyone holding a party makes sure that safety is paramount and they are fully aware of what to do in the case of a burn.
"Most minor burns can be treated at home by keeping the wound clean and remember not to burst any blisters that may form as they are the body’s natural defence to these types of injury.
"More serious burns, especially anything to the face, hands arms or feet will need treating at A&E."
For further health advice go to www.nhsinform.co.uk. For information on organising a safe event, visit www.firescotland.gov.uk.
Top tips for burns include:
• Immediately get the person away from the heat source to stop the burning
• Cool the burn with cool or lukewarm water for 10 to 30 minutes – do not use ice, iced water or any creams or greasy substances such as butter
• Remove any clothing or jewellery that is near the burnt area of skin, but do not move anything that is stuck to the skin
• Make sure the person keeps warm – for example by using a blanket – but take care not to rub it against the burnt area
• Cover the burn by placing a layer of cling film over it
• Use painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, to treat any pain
