How to Treat an Electric Barbecue Lighter Burn
An electric barbecue lighter is generally a safe tool to use when starting your grill. However, accidents happen, and it is possible to burn your skin if you mishandle the lighter. Treatment of a lighter burn can usually be done at home, though you may need to see a doctor if it doesn't heal or becomes infected.
- Rinse the burn immediately with cool water for 15 minutes. This helps to calm the burn and reduce the pain. If it is easier, you can soak the affected area in the water.
- Pat the area dry with a clean towel. Exercise caution to prevent further damage to the skin or pain. Avoid rubbing the area with the towel.
- Apply a modest amount of topical ointment to the wound. This helps the burn heal while also preventing an infection. Cover the area with a bandage. Use the cream as necessary, changing the bandage each time you reapply the ointment.
- Rest the burned area of your body to further relieve the pain associated with it. Take over the counter pain medicines as directed on the label if you have difficulty dealing with the pain.
- See a doctor immediately if there is significant damage to the skin. Minor burns can usually be treated at home. However, a doctor should look at the injury if it has not begun to heal after two to three days.
- Watch for the symptoms of infection, including an odor or pus coming from the burn area or red streaks on the skin surrounding the wound. Get medical attention immediately if these signs are present.