What is an important safety measure to take when providing first aid for burns?

Wearing protective gear is a crucial safety measure when providing first aid for burns. Protective gear, such as gloves, helps to prevent infection and minimizes the risk of transferring pathogens from the first aider's hands to the wound. Additionally, it ensures the safety of the person administering first aid by protecting them from potentially harmful substances or infections present in the burn area.

Addressing the other options: using bare hands can expose both the first aider and the victim to various risks, such as infection. Ice is not recommended for burns because it can cause further skin damage; cool running water is typically advised instead to effectively cool the burn. Covering the burn with a bandage should be done after cooling the area; immediate covering without proper cooling could trap heat, potentially worsening the injury.