The kitchen is one of the most common places for burns at home. Hot pans, boiling water, splattering oil, steam and oven racks all create opportunities for a quick, painful injury. Most kitchen burns are minor, but some can be serious, especially those involving hot oil or a fire. A few consistent habits go a long way toward prevention.
Common Causes of Kitchen Burns
- Touching hot pans, handles, oven racks or baking trays.
- Splashes from boiling water or hot oil.
- Steam released when lifting lids, opening microwave containers or draining pasta.
- Knocking over pans or kettles.
- Loose clothing catching fire over a gas flame.
- Fat or oil overheating and igniting.
Safe Habits at the Stove
- Turn pan handles inward so they do not stick out over the edge of the stove.
- Use the back burners when you can, especially when children are around.
- Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling or boiling. Turn off the heat if you need to leave.
- Wear close-fitting sleeves or roll them up when cooking, and tie back long hair.
- Use dry oven mitts or pot holders. Wet cloth conducts heat quickly and can cause a steam burn.
- Keep a clear, uncluttered space next to the stove so you have somewhere safe to put down a hot pan.
Hot Oil and Steam
Hot oil reaches far higher temperatures than boiling water and sticks to the skin, so oil burns can be deep. Dry food before placing it in hot oil, since water causes spattering. Lower food in gently rather than dropping it, and never leave a pan of oil unattended on the heat.
Steam burns are easy to underestimate. Lift pan lids away from your face and body so the steam escapes on the far side. When opening microwaved containers or bags, peel the cover back away from you. Pour boiling water slowly, and keep your face and hands clear when draining pots.
What to Do in a Pan Fire
A fire in a pan of oil or fat can spread quickly. If it is safe to do so:
- Turn off the heat if you can reach the control without leaning over the flames.
- Smother the fire by sliding a lid or a fire blanket over the pan. Leave it covered.
- Never throw water on an oil or fat fire. Water can cause burning oil to erupt violently.
- Do not try to carry the burning pan outside.
If the fire is not quickly controlled, get everyone out, close the door behind you and call your local emergency number from outside. A working smoke alarm near, but not inside, the kitchen gives early warning.
First Aid for a Minor Kitchen Burn
- Cool it. Hold the burn under cool running water for about 20 minutes. This is still worthwhile if you start a little late.
- Remove rings, watches and tight clothing near the burn before swelling starts, unless they are stuck to the skin.
- Cover it. Lay cling film loosely over the burn or use a clean, non-fluffy dressing.
- Manage pain. Over-the-counter pain relief may help; use it as directed on the label or by a pharmacist.
Do not use ice, butter, oil, toothpaste or flour on a burn. These do not help and can trap heat, damage tissue or raise the risk of infection. Leave blisters intact. For ongoing care, see our guide to burn wound care at home.
When to Get Medical Help
Seek medical care for burns that are larger than the palm of the person's hand, deep, white, brown or charred, or that are on the face, hands, feet, genitals or over joints. Burns in children and older adults should also be checked. Call your local emergency number for large or deep burns, burns from a fire involving smoke inhalation, or if the person has trouble breathing or seems unwell.
Key Takeaways
- Turn handles inward, stay with hot oil and lift lids away from you.
- Smother a pan fire with a lid or fire blanket and never use water on burning oil.
- Cool a burn under running water for about 20 minutes and cover it with cling film or a clean dressing.
- Get medical help for large, deep or sensitive-area burns.
Educational information only, not medical advice. Always follow the advice of a qualified healthcare professional; in an emergency call your local emergency number.