You can quickly estimate the size of a burn by using the "rule of
nines." This method divides the body's surface area into percentages.
Estimating burn size in an adult
See an illustration of the
'rule of nines' for adults 
.
- The front and back of the head and neck equal
9% of the body's surface area.
- The front and back of each arm and
hand equal 9% of the body's surface area.
- The chest equals 9% and
the stomach equals 9% of the body's surface area.
- The upper back
equals 9% and the lower back equals 9% of the body's surface
area.
- The front and back of each leg and foot equal 18% of the
body's surface area.
- The groin area equals 1% of the body's surface
area.
Estimating burn size in babies and young children
See an illustration of the
estimating the size of a burn in babies .
- The front and back of the head and neck are 21%
of the body's surface area.
- The front and back of each arm and hand
are 10% of the body's surface area.
- The chest and stomach are 13%
of the body's surface area.
- The back is 13% of the body's surface
area.
- The buttocks are 5% of the body's surface
area.
- The front and back of each leg and foot are 13.5% of the
body's surface area.
- The groin area is 1% of the body's surface
area.
The "rule of palm" is another way to estimate the size of a burn. The
palm of the person who is burned (not fingers or wrist area) is about 1% of the
body. Use the person's palm to measure the body surface area burned.
It can be hard to estimate the size of a burn. If you think a burn is
a certain size but you are unsure, it is best to discuss the size of the burn
with your health professional.
