Which symptom is indicative of a third degree burn?

A third degree burn is characterized by the destruction of both the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and the underlying layer (dermis), leading to a significant loss of skin functionality. The presence of brown or charred skin is indicative of the severe tissue damage associated with third degree burns. This type of burn can lead to the skin appearing leathery, waxy, or even blackened, as the heat has completely destroyed the skin layers.

In contrast, red, dry skin typically describes a first degree burn, where only the outer layer is affected and the skin remains intact. Open blisters are often seen in second degree burns, where the damage extends deeper into the skin but not all the way through. Swelling can occur with various burn types as a body response to injury, but it is not specific to a third degree burn. Therefore, brown or charred skin is the clear indicator of the severity and type of a third degree burn.