What is the first action to take for a chemical burn?

Flushing the area with water for at least 20 minutes is the appropriate first action for a chemical burn. This step is crucial because the primary goal in managing chemical burns is to remove the chemical irritant from the skin and to dilute its effects. Water helps to wash away the substance that caused the burn, minimizing tissue damage and reducing pain.

Immediate and thorough rinsing with water is recommended because some chemicals can continue to burn and damage skin as long as they remain in contact with it. Therefore, flushing the area promptly can significantly impact the severity of the burn and the extent of injury to the affected tissue.

Additionally, though seeking medical assistance is a vital step for severe burns, it usually follows the initial application of first aid, which in this case means flushing the burn thoroughly. Applying ointments or covering the burn with bandages before removing the chemical can trap the irritant against the skin, which could exacerbate the injury.