Immediate care for chemical skin exposure

• If your child has been exposed to a dry or powdered chemical, gently wipe the powder from the skin. Check the package for emergency advice.

• For most exposures, remove clothing and any jewelry. Rinse the area right away with running water for 20 minutes. A hose is best. You may use a shower or faucet instead. Tissue damage will continue as long as the chemical touches the skin.

• Note :Don't use water to rinse dry lime or metals such as magnesium or phosphorous. Water can react with them to form dangerous byproducts.

• Carefully remove any clothing with the chemical on it. Be careful not to touch the skin with clothing that's being removed. Cut the clothing away, if needed.

• If the chemical splashed into your child's eyes, start rinsing their eyes right away. Call 911 . Continue rinsing until medical help arrives. If your child wears contact lenses, try to remove them.

• Cover the area loosely with a dry, clean cloth.

• Get medical care or dial 911 for emergency medical help. You can also call the poison control center at 800-222-1222.

• Chemical burns that look mild may cause severe deep tissue injury. Always have your child looked at by a health care provider as soon as possible. Do this no matter how mild the injury seems.