Many chemicals are so strong that they can quickly burn the skin. These types of chemicals are often referred to as being "caustic". All chemicals should always be stored away from children.

Some common chemicals that may cause skin burns include:
* Acids. Some common acids include tile cleaner, swimming pool acids, and acid inside car batteries. Muriatic acid is especially strong.
* Drain cleaners such as "Drain-O". Many are strong alkali products.
* Gasoline.
* Cement, dry or wet.
* Lime.
* Strong oxidizers, such as chlorine.

First aid for skin exposure to a caustic chemical is simple. Rinse it off with running water. Continue rinsing for a minimum of 15 minutes. This is often best done with a garden hose or by stepping into a shower. If it is possible, remove contaminated clothing while flushing the affected area.

After rinsing for 15 minutes, call the Poison Control Center for further advice. It helps to have the chemical container with you when this call is made.

Do not try to "neutralize" a chemical, such as by putting an alkali chemical onto skin that has been exposed to an acid. This will often produce a large amount of heat, and may increase the burning.

Do not put any "burn medication" onto the burned skin. Salves, grease or butter may hold the chemical to the area, increasing the exposure. Do not apply a bandage until told to do so by a health care professional.

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