What is the appropriate first aid response for a chemical burn?

Rinsing the area with copious amounts of water is the appropriate first aid response for a chemical burn because it helps to dilute and wash away the chemical that has caused the injury. Immediate flushing with water is crucial in minimizing tissue damage and preventing further chemical injury to the skin. The water irrigation should be continuous and done for at least 20 minutes, or longer if the chemical is particularly hazardous or if pain persists.

Applying ointment immediately can trap the chemical against the skin, worsening the injury. Similarly, covering the burn with a dry cloth may not effectively remove contaminants and could also lead to further irritation or damage. Using a disinfectant on the burn is not advisable in this scenario since disinfectants may not be effective against all chemicals and could potentially exacerbate the burn. Therefore, rinsing with water is the most effective initial treatment to mitigate the harmful effects of a chemical burn.