Burn and scald prevention
Point rice-cooker steam away from people
Place the rice cooker steadily so its steam vent points away from faces, hands, walkways, and children.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12
Why it matters
Hot steam is hard to see and can cause a deep scald before someone pulls away.
Wrong action
Leaning over the vent, touching it, or placing the cooker where a child or passer-by meets the steam.
Correct action
Keep clear of the vent, open the lid away from the face, and let the cooker cool before cleaning.
What to do
- Place the cooker on a stable clear surface.
- Turn the steam vent away from people and edges.
- Keep hands and face back when opening the lid.
If something happens
First move away from steam. 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
- Department of Health — Domestic Safety Handbook
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12 - NHS — Burns and scalds
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12 - Hong Kong Fire Services Department — Burns/Scalds
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.