Burn and scald prevention
Keep water away from very hot oil
Dry food, utensils, and the cooker area before frying, and never pour water into very hot or burning oil.
Why it matters
Water turns rapidly to steam in very hot oil, throwing oil outward and causing burns; on burning oil it can spread the fire.
Wrong action
Putting wet or ice-covered food into hot oil or using water on an oil fire.
Correct action
Prepare with the heat off, dry food and tools, then lower food slowly into a safe amount of oil.
What to do
- Dry the pan, utensils, and cooker area before heating.
- Drain or pat food dry and remove excess ice.
- Lower food slowly, avoid overfilling, and stay present.
If something happens
For an oil fire, never use water or carry the pan. Turn off heat only if safe, leave, and call 999. Cool a burn under running water.
Sources and review
- USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service — Deep Fat Frying and Food Safety
Source checked: 2026-08-20 - Hong Kong Fire Services Department — Fire Prevention in the Home Safety Guide
Source checked: 2026-08-20
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.
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