What measures should you take in case of face burns suffered while removing the radiator cap?
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Correct answer
C. Cool the face with cold water, cover with sterile gauze or hydrogel.
Explanation
In the photo, a cooling system expansion tank with a cap - a place where it is easy to get burned when opening a hot system. You cool a burned face with cold water or apply a hydrogel dressing - answer C.
The coolant in a hot cooling system has a temperature close to 100 °C or higher and is under pressure, so after you unscrew the cap it can spurt straight into your face. You cool the burn as quickly as possible with cool, but not ice-cold, water for at least 20 minutes - this stops the heat from damaging the skin further and eases the pain. A hydrogel dressing from the first aid kit cools and protects the burned area at the same time. A greasy ointment (answer A) and linseed oil or egg white (answer B) keep the heat in the skin, increase the risk of infection and make it harder for a doctor to assess the wound. A burn to the face is always a reason to call medical help. You unscrew the radiator cap only when the engine is cold.
Legal basis: Art. 44 para. 2 point 1 of the Road Traffic Act (Prawo o ruchu drogowym)