Burn

Summary

A burn is an injury to skin, or other tissues, caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, friction, or ionizing radiation. Most burns are thermal burns caused by contact with heat from hot fluids, solids, or fire. Burns occur mainly in the home or the workplace. In the home, risks are associated with domestic kitchens, including stoves, flames, and hot liquids. In the workplace, risks are associated with fire and chemical and electric burns. Alcoholism and smoking are other risk factors. Burns can also occur as a result of self-harm or violence between people (assault).