People have been warned to be careful on pancake day by NHS officials as figures show a surge in online queries for burns advice. According to NHS England, more people search for advice on burns and scalds on the NHS website on pancake day, with daily average views rising from 3,200 to 5,300, based on data from the past two years.
There is advice on the NHS burns and scalds page on prevention, treatment and symptoms, including how to care for blisters, red or peeling skin, swelling and even white or charred skin. Included in the guidance is making sure the person is moved away from the heat source immediately, and that clothing and jewellery near the burnt skin should be removed.
The burn should be cooled with cool or lukewarm running water for 20 to 30 minutes. People should not use ice water or any creams or greases like butter to treat the burn.
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The advice says that once the burn is cool, it can help if it’s covered with cling film or a clean plastic bag, while painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help treat the pain.
Those who have suffered an acid or chemical burn should call 999. The website also details when people should seek further medical attention.
Robert Cleary, NHS England’s content director for the NHS website, said: “The NHS website is available every day of the year for anyone who needs it and is often the first port of call for anyone seeking health advice.
“The site provides information and advice in easy-to-understand language on a wide range of conditions, making it accessible for all and easy for people to receive health advice and support from a trustworthy source.”
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