What is the safest way to pour hot liquids to prevent steam burns?

• A. Tilt container away from you, keep it steady, and use a stable surface.
• B. Tilt toward you to see better.
• C. Pour quickly from a height.
• D. Pour over your hand to feel heat.

Answer: (A)

Pouring hot liquids safely hinges on directing the heat away from your body and keeping the container stable so you can control the flow. When you tilt the container away from you, the liquid and the steam travel away from your face, neck, and arms, cutting down the chances of getting burned. Keeping the pour steady on a stable surface prevents tipping or sudden splashes, which are common ways steam and hot liquid contact the skin. Doing the pour slowly and close to the surface minimizes the force of the jet and helps you stay in control.

Other methods put you at risk: tilting toward you can send steam toward your face, pouring quickly from a height creates a stronger splash, and pouring over your hand brings the hot liquid directly onto your skin.