Contact with hot saucepan or skillet, subsequent encounter Save

How to Deal with a Contact with Hot Saucepan or Skillet: Subsequent Encounter

Accidents happen, and when you’re cooking, one of the most common accidents is contact with hot cookware. It’s easy to get distracted by the cooking process or to accidentally bump into a hot pan or skillet. But what should you do if you have a subsequent encounter with the same cookware?

1. Assess the severity of the burn: Before doing anything else, it’s important to determine the severity of the burn. If it’s a minor burn that only affects the surface of the skin, you may be able to treat it at home. However, if the burn is deep and affects multiple layers of skin, you should seek medical attention.
2. Remove any clothing or jewelry: If the burn is on your hand or arm, remove any clothing or jewelry that may be covering the affected area. This will give you a better view of the burn and allow you to treat it more effectively.
3. Run cool water over the burn: If the burn is minor, running cool water over the affected area can help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Do this for at least 10-15 minutes.
4. Avoid using ice or butter: While it may be tempting to use ice or butter to treat a burn, these substances can actually make the burn worse. Stick to cool water or a cool compress instead.
5. Cover the burn: If the burn is minor, you can cover it with a sterile bandage or gauze to protect it from further irritation. Avoid using cotton balls or swabs, as these can stick to the burn and cause further damage.

Remember, prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to burns. Use oven mitts or pot holders when handling hot cookware, and be aware of your surroundings in the kitchen. If you do experience a burn, follow these steps to help alleviate pain and promote healing.