Health Department of Northwest Michigan. 3434 M-119, Suite A. Harbor Springs, MI 49740. Fax (secure) (231) 347-2861. Environmental Health - Permits. (231) 347-6014.
What are the classifications of burns? Burns are classified as first-, second-, or third-degree, depending on how deep and severely they penetrate the skin's surface. First-degree (superficial) burns First-degree burns affect only the epidermis, or outer layer of skin. The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters. Mild sunburn is an example.
The most serious burns are third-degree burns. Not only are all the layers of skin burnt, but muscle, fat, bone, and other tissues are temporarily or permanently affected. A third-degree burn requires medical attention. Another serious burn that may need treatment is an electrical burn, like from a power cable.