What are the degrees of burns defined as?

The degrees of burns are categorized as first, second, third, and fourth degree based on the depth of tissue damage and the severity of the burn.

First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling, and typically heal without significant medical intervention. Second-degree burns extend deeper into the skin, affecting both the outer layer and the underlying layer, which can result in blisters, swelling, and more intense pain; these burns take longer to heal and may require medical treatment. Third-degree burns penetrate through the skin and can damage deeper tissues, leading to white or charred skin, severe pain, and potential complications, often requiring skin grafts for healing. Fourth-degree burns go beyond the skin, potentially damaging muscles, tendons, and bones, resulting in significant medical emergencies and often necessitating extensive surgical intervention.

This terminology is standardized in medical practice, which helps ensure clear communication among healthcare providers and fire investigation professionals when assessing injuries and administering care. Other classifications, such as superficial, partial, and full thickness (the second option), are also used but are not as widely recognized as the degree-based classification.