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Types of Burns
Understanding the different types of burns is important for giving the right care and knowing when to get medical help. Burns are usually grouped into three main categories—first, second, and third-degree—based on how deep the damage goes into the skin and tissue.
A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of the skin. It causes redness and mild pain, similar to a sunburn. These burns are usually minor and can be treated at home with cool (not cold) water, moisturiser, and over-the-counter pain relief.
A second-degree burn goes deeper into the skin. It can cause blisters, swelling, and more intense pain. These burns may need medical attention, especially if they cover a large area or are on sensitive parts of the body like the face, hands, feet, or joints.
A third-degree burn is the most serious type. It damages all layers of the skin and may even reach muscles or bones. The burn area might look white, charred, or leathery. These burns often cause little or no pain at first because the nerves may be destroyed. Third-degree burns always need emergency medical care.
Knowing how to tell the difference between these types of burns helps you respond quickly and correctly. Whether it’s a small kitchen accident or a more serious injury, being prepared can make a big difference.
Causes, First Aid and More
Burns can happen in many ways—through heat, chemicals, electricity, or even radiation—and understanding the cause is key to treating them effectively. Each type of burn requires a different approach to care and recovery. Whether it’s a scald from hot water, a chemical spill, or a sunburn, knowing what caused the injury helps determine the safest and most effective response. Below are the common causes of burns and how best to deal with each specific situation to support proper healing and prevent further damage
Thermal Burns
flames, hot objects, steam, or hot liquids. These are the most common type of burns
and can range from mild (first-degree) to severe (third-degree or fourth-degree).
Learn More
Common causes
– Hot cooking surfaces (stovetops, ovens, grills)
– Scalding liquids and steam
– Hot objects such as irons, curling irons, and heaters
– Car accidents (hot engine parts, airbag deployment)
– House fires
– Fireworks and explosions
– Lithium batteries being charged
– Affects only the outer layer of skin (epidermis)
– Characterised by redness, minor swelling, and pain
– Skin is dry with no blisters
– Heals within 3-5 days with minimal scarring
Second-degree (Partial thickness)
– Affects epidermis and part of the dermis (second layer)
– Characterised by redness, pain, swelling, and blisters
– Moist appearance
– Heals within 2-3 weeks, may leave scarring
Third-degree (Full thickness)
– Destroys epidermis and dermis, reaching into subcutaneous tissue
– Appears white, charred, or leathery
– Area may be numb due to nerve damage
– Requires medical intervention and often skin grafting
Fourth-degree
– Extends through skin and into fat, muscle, and bone
– Life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention
2. Cool the burn with cool (not cold) running water for at least 20 minutes
3. Do not use ice, as it can cause further damage
4. Remove rings or tight items before swelling occurs
5. Cover with a clean, non-stick bandage or clear plastic film (eg Gladwrap)
6. Do not apply butter, oil, or ointments to the burn
– Deep burns (second-degree or worse)
– Burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, buttocks, or major joints
– Burns that encircle a limb or body part
– Burns resulting from electrical, chemical, or high-pressure steam sources
– Burns with signs of infection (increased pain, redness, swelling, oozing)
– If the person is under 5 or over 65 years old
– Have a fibreglass fire blanket near stove and in bedroom
– Keep hot items out of reach of children
– Use back burners and turn pot handles inward when cooking
– Set water heater temperature to 50°C or lower
– Test bath water before getting in
– Never leave candles unattended
– Have a fire escape plan and practice it regularly
Chemical Burns
alkalis, or other corrosive substances. These burns can be deceptive as damage
continues as long as the chemical remains in contact with the skin, even if there's
little initial pain.
Learn More
Common causes
– Car battery acid
– Pool chemicals
– Industrial chemicals
– Cement
– Fertilisers and pesticides
– Strong alkalis (lye, sodium hydroxide)
– Strong acids (hydrochloric, sulfuric, hydrofluoric)
– Can continue to damage tissue until the chemical is removed
– May cause changes in skin colour
– Can cause the skin to feel dry or slippery
– May produce blistering or blackened areas
– Can cause breathing problems if chemicals were inhaled
2. Brush off dry chemicals before flushing with water
3. Flush the area with cool running water for at least 20-30 minutes
4. For eye burns, flush continuously and gently for at least 20-30 minutes
5. Do not apply neutralising substances (e.g., vinegar for alkali burns) as this can
cause a chemical reaction and more heat
6. Cover with a clean, dry bandage
7. Seek medical attention immediately
– The burn penetrates the first layer of skin
– The burn is on the face, hands, feet, groin, buttocks, or over a major joint
– The burn is from a strong acid or alkali
– You notice signs of infection
– The person has symptoms of shock
– The chemical was inhaled
– The chemical contacted the eyes
– Store chemicals in their original containers
– Follow safety instructions on chemical products
– Keep chemicals out of reach of children
– Ensure proper ventilation when using chemical products
– Never mix cleaning products (especially those containing bleach and ammonia)
– Have emergency eye wash stations and showers in workplaces that use chemicals
Friction Burns
Learn More
Common causes
– Carpet burns
– Rope burns
– Treadmill injuries
– Sports injuries (sliding on artificial turf or gym floors)
– Playground injuries (slides, artificial surfaces)
– Skin appears raw or scraped
– May have embedded debris (dirt, gravel, fibres)
– Can vary from superficial (first-degree) to more severe (second-degree)
– Often affects a larger surface area
– Increased risk of infection due to embedded debris
2. Carefully remove any debris without scrubbing
3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water
4. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment if the skin is broken
5. Cover with a non-stick bandage
6. Change the dressing daily or when it becomes wet or dirty
– Burns with significant embedded debris that cannot be easily cleaned
– Burns that show signs of infection (increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or red streaks)
– Burns on the face or sensitive areas
– Burns that are severely painful or limit movement
– Use proper safety equipment when cycling, skateboarding, or using a motorcycle
– Supervise children on playground equipment
– Wear gloves when handling ropes
– Be cautious on treadmills and maintain proper positioning
– Apply appropriate lubricants during activities where friction might occur
Liquid Burns
Learn More
Common causes
– Boiling water from kettles or pots
– Hot cooking oil or grease
– Hot beverages (coffee, tea, soup)
– Steam from cooking or heating devices
– Hot food (especially microwave-heated items)
– Hot wax
– Can cover large areas of the body
– May cause uneven burning patterns as liquids flow
– Can range from first to third-degree burns
– Hot liquids like oil can cause deeper burns than water at the same temperature
– Children and elderly are at higher risk due to thinner skin
2. Cool the burn under cool (not cold) running water for at least 20 minutes
3. Do not apply ice, butter, or ointments
4. Do not break blisters
5. Cover with a clean, non-stick bandage or Gladwrap
6. Take appropriate pain relief medication as needed
– Deep burns (second or third-degree)
– Burns on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints
– Burns that encircle a limb
– Burns in very young children or elderly individuals
– If signs of infection develop
– Test bath water temperature before use
– Use back burners when cooking and turn pot handles inward
– Keep hot liquids away from edges of tables and counters
– Use mugs with secure lids for hot beverages
– Never carry a child while handling hot liquids
– Stir and test microwave-heated food before serving
– Supervise children in kitchens and bathrooms
Sun Burn
Learn More
Causes
– Exposure to the sun during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm)
– Use of tanning beds or sunlamps
– Exposure to UV-reflective surfaces (water, snow, sand)
– Certain medications that increase sun sensitivity (photosensitizing drugs)
– Skin feels hot to the touch
– Pain and tenderness
– Swelling
– Blistering (in more severe cases)
– Headache, fever, nausea (in severe cases)
– Peeling skin several days after the burn
– Can range from mild (first-degree) to serious (second-degree)
– Increased risk of skin cancer, including melanoma
– Eye damage, including cataracts and macular degeneration
– Weakened immune system
– Permanent skin discoloration
2. Take cool (not cold) baths or showers
3. Apply cool, wet compresses to the affected areas
4. Use moisturising lotion containing aloe vera if available
5. Drink extra water to prevent dehydration
6. Take anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling
7. Do not break blisters if they form
8. Avoid further sun exposure until the sunburn heals
– Sunburn accompanied by high fever, extreme pain, confusion, nausea, or chills
– Signs of infection in blistered areas
– Sunburn in an infant under 1 year
– Sunburn that doesn’t improve within a few days
– Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, hats with wide brims, sunglasses)
– Seek shade during peak UV hours (10 am to 4 pm)
– Be especially careful near reflective surfaces like water, snow, and sand
– Check the UV index before outdoor activities
– Use extra protection at high altitudes or near the equator
– Remember that UV rays can penetrate clouds and cause sunburn even on overcast days, especially in New Zealand where the ozone layer is thinner
– Be aware that New Zealand has some of the highest UV levels in the world, with burn times as short as 10-15 minutes in summer
– Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps
Electrical Burns
Learn More
Common causes
– Lightning strikes
– Contact with electrical outlets (especially in children)
– Accidents with high-voltage power lines
– Faulty electrical appliances
– Electrical accidents in the workplace
– Chewing on electrical cords (common in children and pets)
– Relatively small surface burns that may hide severe internal damage
– Possible cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac arrest
– Muscle contractions or seizures during the electrical contact
– Possible fractures from falls or severe muscle contractions
– Neurological symptoms: confusion, difficulty breathing, seizures
– Can cause three types of burns:
o True electrical burns from current passing through tissues
o Arc burns from electricity jumping from an electrical source to a person
o Thermal contact burns from touching hot electrical equipment
– Use the correct wattage in light fixtures
– Avoid running cords under carpets or furniture
– Keep electrical devices away from water
– Unplug appliances when not in use
– Use surge protectors for valuable electronics
– Teach children about electrical safety from an early age
2. Turn off the power source if possible or call emergency services
3. Once safe, check for breathing and pulse; begin CPR if necessary
4. Cover any visible burns with a clean, dry bandage or Gladwrap
5. Keep the person still and avoid moving them if possible
6. Seek immediate medical attention
Electrical burns can cause internal damage that isn’t immediately visible. Even a minor electrical shock should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, especially in:
– Children
– Elderly individuals
– People with existing health conditions
– Cases involving high voltage
– Any shock that causes loss of consciousness
– Keep electrical cords out of reach of children
– Repair or replace damaged electrical cords immediately
– Avoid using electrical appliances near water
– Turn off circuit breakers before working on electrical systems
– Use residual current devices (RCDs) or ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs)
– Stay away from downed power lines
– Seek shelter during thunderstorms
Recovery Process
** Important disclaimers about seeking medical help bla bla bla bla
Pain Management
** Important disclaimers about seeking medical help bla bla bla bla
Mental Health Support
The emotional journey of burn recovery
Recovering from a burn injury involves healing both physically and emotionally. The
psychological impact of a burn can be significant and may include:
- Adjustment to changes in appearance and function
- Processing trauma related to the burn incident
- Managing pain and medical procedures
- Coping with lifestyle changes and limitations
- Navigating social interactions and reactions from others
These challenges are a normal part of the recovery process. Seeking support is not
a sign of weakness but an important step in holistic healing.
Professional support options
Many burn survivors benefit from working with mental health professionals who
specialise in trauma, adjustment, and burn recovery. The Burn Support Group can
connect you with specialists who understand the unique aspects of burn trauma.
Some burn survivors may experience conditions such as post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety that benefit from psychiatric evaluation and
treatment. Medication can be an important component of care for some individuals.
The burn units at our hospitals include psychological support as part of their multidisciplinary approach. Take advantage of these services during hospital stays and follow-up appointments.
Connecting with others who have experienced similar challenges can be incredibly
validating and helpful. The Burn Support Group offers several peer support options:
- One-on-one peer support matching
- Support groups
- Survivor Sundays events
- Camp Awhi for children and youth
- Women’s Retreat and Men’s Forum for gender-specific support
Supporting a loved one through burn recovery can be emotionally taxing. We
recognise that family members and caregivers also need support. Watch out for our
soon to be introduced programme for this special group.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis, immediate
support is available:
- Need to Talk? Call or text 1737 anytime for support from a trained counsellor
- Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- In an emergency, dial 111
It’s important to recognise that:
- Adjusting to changes in appearance takes time
- Feelings of grief, loss, anger, or sadness are normal
- Body image concerns can fluctuate throughout recovery
- Healing is both physical and emotional
- Many burn survivors develop greater resilience and self-acceptance through their journey
Practical strategies for building body image acceptance
- Meaningful skin care routines: Transform necessary medical skin care into a self-compassion practice. Use this time to acknowledge your body’s strength and resilience.
- Mirror work: Practice looking at affected areas gradually with support, using positive or neutral language to describe what you see.
- Comfort-based clothing choices: Select clothing that makes you feel good, whether that means covering affected areas until you’re ready or choosing options that celebrate your body.
- Body-positive media: Intentionally follow social media accounts, read books, and watch shows that celebrate diverse bodies and appearances.
- Movement as celebration: Engage in physical activities that focus on what your body can do rather than how it looks – walking, swimming, dancing, or adaptive sports.
- Grounding techniques: Practice techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and the 5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise when feeling overwhelmed by appearance concerns.
5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise
Look around your environment and name five things you can observe. These could be objects, colours, or details you might not normally notice. For example: “I see my blue notebook, the pattern on the curtains, a plant on the windowsill, the wood grain on the table, and a photograph on the wall.”
Focus on three distinct sounds in your environment. This might be traffic outside, the hum of a refrigerator, birds singing, people talking, or even your own breathing.
Identify two scents in your environment. If smells aren’t immediately obvious, you might move to smell something nearby like
a cup of tea, a plant, or hand lotion.
- Directs attention away from distressing thoughts and toward present sensory experiences
- Engages all five senses systematically
- Requires enough focus to interrupt the cycle of anxious thoughts
- Helps reconnect with the physical world when emotions feel overwhelming
- Is accessible anywhere without special equipment
- Rehersed responses: Transform necessary medical skin care into a self-compassion practice. Use this time to acknowledge your body’s strength and resilience.
- Graduated exposure: Begin with short outings to supportive environments
before tackling more challenging social situations. Bring a trusted support person
for early outings. - Pre-planning for children’s questions: Children often ask direct questions out
of natural curiosity. Simple, matter-of-fact responses often work best: “My skin was injured by heat/fire, and it’s healing differently than other skin.” - Peer connection: Spend time with others who have similar experiences, whether through organised support groups or informal meetups, to reduce feelings of isolation.
- Educate when ready: Share information about burn injuries and recovery on your own terms – you are never obligated to be an educator, but some find it empowering when they choose to do so.
- Supportive shopping: Shop with trusted friends or family members who can provide positive feedback and help find items that make you feel confident.
- Reframing your thoughts: Work with a therapist to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts about your appearance. For example, transforming “Everyone is staring at me” to “Some people may notice my differences, while others may not. Their reactions are about them, not me.”
- Self-compassion practices: Develop the habit of speaking to yourself with the same kindness you would offer a good friend experiencing similar challenges.
- Expressive arts: Use drawing, painting, writing, music, or movement to express feelings about body image that may be difficult to put into words.
- Visualisation: Practice visualising yourself successfully navigating situations that feel challenging, focusing on your inner qualities rather than appearance.
- Acceptance practices: Work with a therapist on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) techniques to develop psychological flexibility around body image concerns.
- Narrative therapy: Reframe your burn story as one chapter in your larger life story, emphasising your agency and resilience.
- Age-appropriate books about differences and self-acceptance
- Play therapy resources
- Family activities promoting positive body image
- School reintegration support
- Peer connection opportunities through Camp Awhi
- Join social media support groups
- Invest in a hobby that helps you focus on something you enjoy and makes youfeel creative
- Ask a counsellor to help you navigate dating and relationships
- Intimacy and relationship resources
- Workplace reintegration guidance
- Adaptive clothing and cosmetic resources
- Body-positive community connections
Building Confidence
Look around your environment and name five things you can observe. These could be objects, colours, or details you might not normally notice. For example: “I see my blue notebook, the pattern on the curtains, a plant on the windowsill, the wood grain on the table, and a photograph on the wall.”
Practical confidence-building strategies
- Start with small, manageable challenges
- Celebrate progress rather than perfection
- Track achievements in a journal or app
- Gradually increase difficulty as confidence grows
- Explore activities that interest you
- Focus on abilities rather than limitations
- Consider adaptive techniques or equipment if needed
- Share your new skills with others
- Practice telling your story on your own terms
- Develop comfort with setting boundaries
- Learn techniques for handling difficult conversations
- Build assertiveness in medical settings
- Notice and challenge negative inner dialogue
- Create personal affirmations that feel authentic
- Focus on personal qualities beyond appearance
- Practice self-compassion during difficult moments
Confidence in different settings
Social situations
- Gradual exposure to social environments
- Preparation for common questions
- Building a supportive social network
- Finding communities where you feel belonging
- Understanding your rights and accommodations
- Communicating effectively with employers or teachers
- Professional development opportunities
- Mentorship connections
- Adaptive sports and recreation programmes
- Creative pursuits and hobbies
- Travel tips and resources
- Community involvement and volunteering
Many burn survivors report that their recovery journey ultimately led to unexpected
personal growth, including:
- Deeper resilience and inner strength
- More authentic relationships
- Greater empathy for others facing challenges
- Clearer sense of personal values and priorities
- Advocacy and leadership opportunities
- New career paths or interests
The Burn Support Group offers several programmes specifically designed to build
confidence:
- Camp Awhi:
Helping young people build confidence through adventure and peer
connection - Women’s Retreat:
Creating space for women to reclaim their sense of self - Men’s Forum:
Offering male-cantered approaches to confidence and identity - Survivor Sundays:
Providing inspiration and practical tools for confidence
building - Public speaking workshop:
Developing skills to share your story when you
choose to
Building confidence is not about reaching some “final destination” of complete self-
assurance. It’s about developing self-trust, embracing vulnerability when needed,
and recognising your inherent worth regardless of appearance. The Burn Support
Group is here to support you through every step of this journey.
Daily Living
Living well after a burn injury involves more than medical treatment – it’s about creating a fulfilling daily routine that supports your physical health, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth. This section provides practical guidance for rebuilding and enriching your daily life.
Exercise and Physical Activity
Starting your movement journey
Physical activity plays a crucial role in burn recovery, helping maintain range of motion, build strength, and boost mental health. The key is finding activities that work for your body and circumstances.
Working With Your Medical Team
Before beginning any exercise programme, consult with your burn care team, including physiotherapists and occupational therapists. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your specific injuries, healing stage, and functional goals. Some survivors benefit from structured rehabilitation programmes, while others may be cleared for independent activity.
Adapting Activities to your needs
Many traditional exercises can be modified to accommodate burn injuries. Pool- based activities are often excellent choices, as water provides gentle resistance while supporting joints. The buoyancy can make movement easier, and many pools have wheelchair access and trained staff to assist .Consider activities that focus on what your body can do rather than limitations. This might include chair-based exercises, adaptive sports, gentle yoga, tai chi, or walking programmes. Many communities offer adaptive recreation programmes specifically designed for people with injuries or disabilities.
Building Strength and Flexability
Scar tissue can affect mobility and strength, making targeted exercises important for maintaining function. Range-of-motion exercises help prevent contractures, while gentle strengthening activities support daily activities. Some survivors find that regular movement helps manage pain and improves sleep quality.
Finding joy in movement
Exercise doesn’t have to mean traditional gym workouts. Dancing, gardening, playing with children, or walking with friends all count as beneficial physical activity. The goal is to find movement that brings you pleasure and fits into your lifestyle.
NUTRITION AND HEALTHY EATING
Fueling recovery and wellbeing
Good nutrition supports healing, energy levels, and overall health during and after burn recovery. Your nutritional needs may be different from before your injury, particularly during active healing phases.
Working with Nutrition Professionals
Many burn survivors benefit from working with registered dietitians who understand the unique nutritional demands of burn recovery. Protein needs are often higher during healing, and some medications or treatments may affect appetite or nutrient
absorption.
Practical eating strategies
Meal planning and preparation may need to be adapted based on your functional abilities. Consider batch cooking when energy levels are good, using adaptive kitchen tools if needed, or accepting help from family and friends with meal preparation. If scarring affects your hands or arms, occupational therapists can suggest helpful kitchen adaptations and techniques. Many survivors find that focusing on nutrient- dense, easy-to-prepare foods helps maintain good nutrition without adding stress.
Social aspects of eating
Sharing meals with others is an important part of social connection. Don’t let concerns about eating in public prevent you from enjoying meals with friends and family. Most people are far less focused on how you eat than you might imagine.
Hydration Matters
Staying well-hydrated is particularly important for burn survivors, as it supports skin health and overall healing. Some survivors find that damaged sweat glands affect their body’s ability to regulate temperature, making adequate fluid intake even more
crucial.
HOBBIES AND PERSONAL INTERESTS
Rediscovering What Brings You Joy
Hobbies and personal interests provide meaning, pleasure, and opportunities for achievement outside of medical care. Some survivors return to previous interests, while others discover entirely new passions.
Adapting Existing Hobbies
Many hobbies can be modified to accommodate physical changes. Crafters might use adaptive tools or techniques, musicians might explore different instruments or playing methods, and gardeners might try raised beds or container gardening. The
key is creativity and willingness to experiment.
Discovering New Passions
A burn injury sometimes opens doors to interests you might never have considered before. Many survivors discover talents in writing, advocacy, art, or other creative pursuits. Some find meaning in activities connected to their recovery experience, such as peer support or fundraising.
The Power of Creative Expression
Creative activities offer unique benefits for burn survivors, providing outlets for processing emotions and experiences that might be difficult to express in words. This might include visual arts, music, writing, photography, or performing arts. Many survivors find that creative expression helps them reclaim their sense of identity and purpose.
Exploring New Learning Opportunities
Consider this an opportunity to learn something you’ve always wanted to try. Online courses, community education programmes, and local clubs offer countless possibilities for intellectual growth and skill development.
SOCIAL CONNECTIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS
Communicating with existing relationships
Friends and family members may need guidance on how to best support you. Being open about your needs, boundaries, and feelings helps others understand how to maintain meaningful connections. Some people may initially feel uncertain about how to act around you – clear, honest communication often resolves these awkward moments.
Meeting new people
Building new friendships and relationships remains important and possible after burn injury. Focus on shared interests, values, and activities rather than allowing appearance concerns to limit social opportunities. Many survivors find that their
experience gives them greater empathy and deeper capacity for meaningful relationships.
Dating and intimate relationships
Romantic relationships are an important part of life for many people. While concerns about appearance and physical changes are understandable, many burn survivors maintain existing relationships and form new romantic connections. Open communication, patience and acceptance with yourself and partners, and sometimes professional counselling can help navigate these relationships successfully.
Professional relationships
Workplace relationships and professional networking remain important aspects of social connection. Most colleagues will take their cues from you about how to interact and what level of discussion about your injury feels comfortable.
Maintaining and building relationships
Strong social connections are vital for mental health and life satisfaction. While some relationships may change after a burn injury, many survivors find that authentic connections become deeper and more meaningful.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND GIVING BACK
Maintaining and building relationships
Finding your place in the community
Community involvement provides purpose, connection, and opportunities to make a positive impact. Many burn survivors find that contributing to their communities becomes an important part of their recovery and ongoing life satisfaction.
Volunteer opportunities
Volunteering can be adapted to match your interests, skills, and physical abilities. Whether it’s helping at local schools, supporting community organisations, participating in environmental projects, or assisting with fundraising events, there are countless ways to contribute meaningfully.
Advocacy and awareness
Some survivors choose to become advocates for burn safety, improved medical care, or support services. This might involve speaking at schools about fire safety, participating in awareness campaigns, or supporting legislation related to burn care or disability rights. Not everyone feels called to advocacy work, and that’s perfectly
fine – but for those who do, it can provide deep satisfaction and purpose.
Peer support roles
Many experienced burn survivors find meaning in supporting others who are earlier in their recovery journey. This might happen through formal peer support programmes, mentoring relationships, or simply being available to share experiences and encouragement.
Professional contributions
Your experience as a burn survivor may offer unique perspectives in various professional contexts. Some survivors become healthcare providers, safety professionals, counsellors, or work in other fields where their lived experience
provides valuable insight.
Creating inclusive communities
By participating fully in community life, burn survivors help create more inclusive and accepting environments for everyone. Your presence in various community settings helps others become more comfortable with differences and can break down barriers for future participants.
BUILDING YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
Creating structure that works
A consistent daily routine can provide stability and purpose while remaining flexible enough to accommodate medical appointments and varying energy levels. Focus on including elements that support your physical health, mental wellbeing, and personal fulfilment.
Balancing activity and rest
Recovery is ongoing, and energy levels may fluctuate. Building rest and self-care into your routine isn’t laziness—it’s essential for sustainable wellbeing. Quality sleep is particularly important for healing and emotional regulation, so prioritising good
sleep hygiene can significantly impact your overall recovery and daily functioning. Learn to recognise your energy patterns and plan accordingly.
Self-care for body and mind
Self-care involves intentionally nurturing both your physical appearance and emotional wellbeing – and this matters for everyone, regardless of gender. While women often embrace self-care practices more readily, men can equally benefit from
activities that promote healing and confidence.
This might include professional beauty treatments like facials or manicures that help you feel pampered and cared for, therapeutic massage to ease tension and promote relaxation, or spa treatments that combine physical and emotional benefits.
Emotional self-care is equally important and can include meditation or mindfulness practices, reading for pleasure, enjoying a special meal at a favourite restaurant, watching a film that brings you joy, or simply taking time for activities that restore your sense of peace.
Setting realistic expectations
Some days will be better than others, and that’s completely normal. Having both active plans and gentler alternatives allows you to participate in life while honouring your body’s needs on any given day.
SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, whether that’s assistance with transportation, meal preparation, or simply having someone to talk with. Building and maintaining support systems is an important life skill that benefits everyone involved. Remember that rebuilding daily life after a burn injury is a gradual process.
Focus on progress rather than perfection, celebrate small victories, and be patient with yourself as you discover what works best for your unique situation. The Burn Support Group is here to support you through every step of this journey, connecting you with resources, programmes, and other survivors who understand the path you’re walking.
Prevention in your Home
Protecting our communities through education and awareness
Burn injuries are often highly preventable, which is why education and awareness are at the heart of our mission at the Burn Support Group Charitable Trust. We are committed to reducing burn incidents across New Zealand by empowering people with the knowledge and tools to stay safe.
Burn Injury Risks for Children in Aotearoa
Research from SafeKids Aotearoa shows concerning trends in New Zealand
- Hot substances and heat are the leading cause of hospital admissions for burn injuries
- Children living in lower socioeconomic and urban areas are more likely to be killed and injured by burns
- Burn injury rates are significantly higher for boys than girls, and for Māori and Pacific children compared to European and Asian children
- Children have thinner skin that burns faster, deeper and at lower temperatures
- Exposure to water at 50°C takes about 10 seconds to cause a full thickness burn, and only 1-2 seconds at 55°C
- More than half of young children admitted to hospital for burns are scalded by spilt hot drinks and coffee
Understanding common causes by age
Children 0–4 Years
- 55% of burn-related hospital admissions in this age group are due to contact with hot objects or substances.
- Hot liquids and steam are the most common causes of burns.
- Everyday hazards include hot drinks, scalding food, tap water, and cooking oils.
Children 5–9 Years
- 67% of burn admissions in this age group result from contact with hot items or substances.
- Key risks include hot drinks, piping-hot food, cooking oils, and water heated on stoves.
- Exposure to fire from home heating sources (like fireplaces and heaters) begins to rise.
Children 10–14 Years
- 34% of burn injuries in this group are caused by highly flammable materials, such as petrol and aerosol sprays.
- 15% are from contact with heat or hot substances.
- Greater exposure to controlled fires in buildings (e.g., fireplaces and stoves) and flammable materials becomes more common.
As children grow, their exposure to different burn risks increases. Understanding these age-specific hazards can help keep tamariki safe at every stage of development.
How to keep our Tamariki safe
Hot liquids and water
A hot drink spilt over a small child can cause life-changing injuries
- Always keep hot drinks out of reach of tamariki
- Never drink hot liquids while holding a child
- Set your hot water temperature to 50°C Celsius at the tap
- Run cold water first in the bath
Safety at home
- Keep tamariki at least a metre from heaters, fireplaces, and stoves
- Have working smoke alarms and test them monthly
- Install photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area, and hallway on every level of the home
- Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children
Safety in the kitchen
- Create a kid-free zone around the stove when cooking
- Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove
- Use back burners when possible
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Be especially careful with hot oils
- Test food heated in the microwave before eating and stir to distribute heat evenly
New Zealand regulations for burn prevention
New Zealand has several regulations designed to reduce burn risks:
- New Zealand has several regulations designed to reduce burn risks:
- Building regulations specify maximum hot water temperatures for personal
hygiene (maximum 55°C) - Product Safety Standards require children’s nightwear and sleepwear to meet
flammability standards - Cigarette lighters must include child-resistant features
- Smoke alarm requirements in rental properties and new building
Remember
Most burns are preventable. By implementing these safety measures and educating
those around you, you can significantly reduce the risk of burn injuries in your home
and community.
Most burns are preventable. By implementing these safety measures and educating
those around you, you can significantly reduce the risk of burn injuries in your home
and community.
Give your family plenty of warning, install your smoke alarms today!
Smoke alarms sense smoke well before you can, alerting you to the danger, which is why it is important for everyone in the house to have a working smoke alarm near them.