Sunburn and burns from hot equipment
Cool water for 20 minutes, cover loosely, never pop blisters.
Manage on site
What to do now
- 1Move away from the heat source.
- 2Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes — start as soon as possible.
- 3Remove rings, watches and wet-hot clothing unless stuck to the skin.
- 4Cover loosely with cling film lengthways or a clean non-fluffy dressing.
- 5For sunburn: shade, cool water, fluids, and after-sun on unbroken skin only.
Do not
- 1Do not use ice, butter, oil or toothpaste.
- 2Do not burst blisters.
- 3Do not wrap tightly.
Seek urgent help if
- 1Burn larger than the person's palm, or on face, hands, feet, joints or genitals.
- 2White, leathery or painless skin — deep burns.
- 3Any chemical, electrical or airway burn, or breathing difficulty.
- 4Sunburn with blistering, confusion, fainting or a high temperature.
Aftercare
- 1Keep the area clean, covered and out of the sun.
- 2Drink fluids and rest.
- 3See a clinician if pain worsens after day two or the dressing smells.
This page is general first-aid guidance for anglers. It cannot diagnose an injury and does not replace professional emergency care. If you are unsure, call 112.
