What is the first action to take when treating a burn survivor?

Cooling the skin of the burn area is essential in the immediate treatment of a burn survivor. This action helps to reduce the temperature of the burn, which can minimize tissue damage and alleviate pain. Applying cool (not ice-cold) water to the burn site for about 10 to 20 minutes is effective in preventing further injury and promotes healing. The cooling process also reduces swelling and can help ease the discomfort experienced by the burn survivor.

Covering the burn tightly would not facilitate healing or comfort, as it could trap heat and moisture against the skin. Applying ointment too early can interfere with the body's natural healing process and might lead to infection if proper wound care isn't followed. Removing clothing from the burn area can sometimes be necessary, but it should be done with caution to avoid causing further injury; if the clothing is stuck to the burn, it should not be forcibly removed. Therefore, cooling the burn area stands as the first critical step in the management of burns.