burn , which is pretty unlikely from a hot beverage . Otherwise , treat her at home and act fast . Since the first thing to do is get the hot liquid off the body , Dr. Zibners recommends removing the wet clothing and plunking her into a cool shower . `` If it 's only a small part of the hand or arm that 's been burned , '' she says , `` running cool water over the limb in the sink for 10 to 15 minutes or until the pain subsides will stop further injury and provide immediate pain relief . '' Keep the area in water until it 's cool to the touch , then treat the burn . At-home burn basics If she has a first-degree burn -LRB- the skin is red -RRB- , follow these tips : DO : After the burn has cooled , cover it loosely with a dry bandage or clean cloth . DO N'T : Apply ointments -LRB- or butter -RRB- . This could cause infection or trap heat and make the burn deeper . Do not break any blisters . This could allow bacteria into the wound . What if
-LRB- Parenting.com -RRB- -- When your toddler is hurt and screaming and emotions are bubbling over , it can be hard to tell if a situation is a true emergency , something that can be treated in your doctor 's office or an issue you can handle at home . `` It 's always better to call the pediatrician before going to the ER for anything but life-threatening emergencies , '' says Lara Zibners M.D. , a pediatric ER doctor and author of `` If Your Kid Eats This Book , Everything Will Still Be Okay . '' We spoke to pediatric ER doctors about the most common accidents and whether your child 's doctor will deal with the issue over the phone , have you come into the office or call the ER to alert them that your child is on the way . What if your baby pulls up on the coffee table and then yanks a mug of hot tea on herself ? Head to the ER if the burn covers a large part of her body ; if it 's on her face , hands , feet or genitals ; or if it 's a third-degree