When should you call 911 for burn treatment?

Calling 911 for burn treatment is crucial when there is trouble breathing or if the burns are large. This situation indicates a severe injury that could lead to life-threatening complications. Difficulty breathing may suggest that the airway has been compromised, possibly due to inhalation of smoke or chemical fumes, which requires immediate medical attention. Large burns, particularly those covering significant areas of the body or affecting critical areas such as the face, hands, or genitals, can also require specialized medical treatment.

In contrast, small and superficial burns, as well as burns on a person who is conscious and alert, typically do not necessitate emergency services and can often be treated at home or with minor first aid. Similarly, burns that are less than an inch in size are generally not serious enough to warrant a call to emergency services unless they exhibit signs of infection or other complications. Thus, the correct option underscores the importance of recognizing when a burn injury poses a serious risk to life or health.