Burn and scald prevention
Open hot pot lids away from the face
Stand back and lift the far edge of a hot lid first so steam escapes away from the face and hands.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12
Why it matters
Trapped steam can rush toward the person opening the lid and cause serious face, eye, or hand scalds.
Wrong action
Lifting the near edge first while leaning over the pot.
Correct action
Use dry protection, keep the face back, and open the far edge slowly to direct steam away.
What to do
- Turn pot handles to a stable safe position.
- Wear dry heat-resistant mitts and stand back.
- Lift the far edge slowly and wait for steam to escape.
If something happens
First move away from steam; seek immediate help for an eye injury too. Cool the burn or scald under cool running water for 20 minutes. Do not use ice, toothpaste, or oil, or burst blisters. For a large, deep, or facial burn or breathing difficulty, call 999 immediately without waiting to finish cooling.
Sources and review
- Hong Kong Fire Services Department — Burns and Scalds
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12 - NHS — Burns and scalds
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.