First aid learner ‘saved legs’ of patient with significant burn injury after putting education into action
A first aid educator has shared her burn advice after a student’s training proved vital in an emergency
A first aid education leader has shared how a student “saved” the legs of a patient with serious burns by using lessons they learned from the course.
The learner was trained by Underwood Training, an accredited Leeds-based First Aid provider, and their burn education proved vital in an emergency incident.
The first aider was told by hospital staff that their prompt first aid to a person with significant burns had “saved their legs”, according to feedback shared with founder Helen Underwood.
Helen is now sharing this story ahead of National Burn Awareness Day on October, 14, which aims to highlight burn and scald prevention and promote correct first-aid treatment.
As Halloween and Bonfire Night quickly approaches, the education leader wants to warn parents the importance of knowing how to prevent and respond to burns.
Helen said: “That feedback shows how much the first few minutes can matter. I want parents to know how to prevent burns happening in the first place, and what to do if the worst happens.
“Thirty children go to hospital with a hot drink burn every day. Alongside candles, costumes and fireworks, we need to think about everyday risks, including a mug within reach of little hands.”
A burn usually happens when dry heat comes into contact with your skin, such as fire or a hot iron, but can also be caused by electricity or chemicals.
Meanwhile, scalds are caused by hot liquids or steam.
10,341 children were burned or scalded in 2025, an injury which can be severe and require hospital treatment.
Helen shared the following tips to keep children safe:
- Keep hot drinks out of children’s reach
- Use battery-operated candles in pumpkins
- Keep costumes away from flames
- Practice “Stop, Drop, and Roll” with children before celebrations so they know what to do if clothing catches fire
- Choose organised firework displays
- Never give sparklers to children under five
For burns and scalds, her message is Cool, Call, Cover: cool under cool running water for 20 minutes, call 999 for serious burns or seek medical advice, then cover loosely with cling film.
Helen said: “Twenty minutes can feel long when your child is upset, but prompt cooling can help limit the severity of the injury. Start cooling straight away, set a timer and keep the rest of their body warm.
“If you’re unsure, call NHS 111 for advice; for serious burns, call 999 while cooling.”