The correct answer is A) flood, bathe, or immerse the burned area in cold water. This is the correct first treatment for a surface burn because cooling the burn quickly with cold water helps stop the burning process, reduces pain, and minimizes tissue damage. The cold water should be applied for at least 10-20 minutes. This first aid measure is recommended by the American Burn Association and other medical authorities. The other options are incorrect because: B) leaving the burn exposed can lead to further damage, C) washing with warm water and soap can irritate the burn, and D) covering with powder and bandaging tightly is not the appropriate initial treatment.