Burn and scald prevention
Position pan handles safely while cooking
Turn pot and pan handles inward or toward the wall, away from the cooker edge, people, and other hot burners.
Last reviewed: 2026-10-12
Why it matters
An outward handle can be knocked or pulled by a child, spilling hot oil, water, or food.
Wrong action
Letting a handle extend over the cooker edge, point into a walkway, or sit above another active burner.
Correct action
After placing each pan, check that its handle is inward, stable, and clear of every other heat source.
What to do
- Centre the pan securely on a suitable burner.
- Turn the handle inward or toward the wall and away from other heat.
- Check the handle again before turning away from the cooker.
If something happens
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: 2026-08-20 - 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.
Related safety lessons
High-priority reminderBurn and scald prevention
Keep appliance cords away from table edges
Place kettles and heated appliances securely at the back of the counter and keep their cords where children cannot pull them.
View safety lesson →
High-priority reminderChild safety
Do not carry a child while cooking
Before using a flame, hot oil, or hot pan, ask another adult to supervise the child or place the child safely away from the cooking area.
View safety lesson →
Standard safety ruleBurn and scald prevention
Let ovens and air fryers cool before touching or cleaning
After use, switch off and unplug, then let the body, basket, tray, and interior cool as instructed before cleaning or storage.
View safety lesson →