If you encounter a casualty with severe burns at an accident scene, what should you immediately do?

In the case of a casualty with severe burns, administering first aid promptly and correctly is essential to help alleviate pain and prevent further injury. Dousing the burn with cold water serves to cool the affected area and reduce the temperature of the burn, which can minimize tissue damage and alleviate the severity of the injury. This cooling process should be done with running water for approximately 20 minutes and is essential to prevent the burn from worsening.

Covering the burn with a cloth may be beneficial after cooling the burn, as it can protect the area from infection and further exposure. However, it is not the immediate first step to take in this situation. Similarly, applying ice directly to the burn can cause frostbite and further damage the already injured skin, so it is not advisable. While reassuring the casualty is important for their emotional state, it does not address the immediate medical need of treating severe burns effectively. Therefore, cooling the burn with cold water is the most critical initial action to take.