BLET First Responder Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In the case of a thermal burn with a semi-solid substance like grease, the appropriate response is to avoid removing the substance and instead cool the area with water. This approach is important because the grease can potentially trap heat against the skin, making the burn worse if it is removed aggressively. Cooling the burn with water can help to reduce the temperature of the skin and alleviate pain without further damaging the tissue underneath.

Using cold water to cleanse the area is generally not advisable because it could lead to additional tissue damage, especially if the substance adheres tightly to the skin. Similarly, removing the grease immediately with a knife could cause further injury to the burned area, increasing the risk of infection. As for ice packs, while they might seem like a solution, applying ice directly to a burn can lead to frostbite and further damage to the skin. Therefore, cooling with water while leaving the substance intact is the most effective and safest method to provide immediate care for a thermal burn with a semi-solid contaminant.