What’s My Husband Done Now? | The Steak-in-the-Hot-Pan Edition
- City First Aid
- Oct 21
- 3 min read
Earlier this year, we had what I now call “The Great Steak Incident.” You know where this is going, right?!
Mike decided to cook himself a big, fat, juicy steak. The oil was shimmering, the pan was hot, and everything was going perfectly - right up until he threw the steak into the pan like it was a discus.
You can probably guess what happened next.
Hot oil met bare hand, and the kitchen briefly turned into a bubbly pseudo-fireworks display.
Most people would have dropped the tongs and run for the tap.
But not Mike.
He just kept cooking - one hand in major pain, the other in less pain, but absolutely determined to protect that perfect sear.
By the time the steak was resting, one hand was the size of a boxing glove, the other was nursing a neat little blister.
(But also a steak cooked to perfection. Priorities, people.)
What type of burn?
We had a good look at his hand. Parts were red, sore, and shiny - that's a superficial burn (or first degree). It affects only the top layer of skin and usually heals in about a week with good cooling and care.
But there were also larger blistered patches - a partial-thickness (second-degree burn). That's more serious, more painful, and definitely not something you want to ignore. I'm not posting those nasty pics, just this little guy below.
Here's a quick comparison guide for your fridge door (or your next steak night):
First Aid for Burns
We follow the guidelines recommended by the New Zealand Resuscitation Council. You can view their first aid for burns guideline here
And, in honour of The Great Steak Incident, and BBQ season ahead, here’s your friendly hot-oil safety reminder:
Firstly, don't throw a steak into hot oil. Then:
Cool: The burn immediately with cool running water for 20 minutes.
Clear: Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing before swelling starts.
Cover: with cling film or a clean, non-fluffy cloth - don’t pop blisters or apply creams.
Cool the burn but keep the person warm and calm (use a blanket on unburned areas).
DON'Ts for burns,
Don't remove anything that is stuck to the skin, cool over the top of it.
Don't pop blisters.
Don't apply creams, sprays, windex or toothpaste.
Don't overcool the person, (cool the burn, keep the patient warm)
When to call an ambulance for a burn?
Call 111 for urgent help if any of the following apply:
Size and Depth
The burn covers a large area. (e.g., 1/2 an arm or more)
It looks deep, white, charred, brown, or leathery.
Loss of feeling or waxy skin.
Cause
Electrical or Chemical burns: (cement, acid, cleaning products, or fertiliser etc).
Inhalation: Smoke, steam, or hot gases.
Age
If they are a child, an elderly person, or someone medically fragile. (rough guide, under 5 or over 65)
Location
Face, eyes, ears, neck, or airway or wraps around a limb or chest.
On hands, feet, joints, or genitals, where healing is easily affected.
Extent / Condition
Multiple burns or combined injuries (burn + fracture, fall, etc.).
Explosion, fire, or lightning.
Signs of shock: pale, clammy, fast pulse, confusion, or collapse.
The Aftermath
Mike’s hand healed beautifully, and I’m pleased to report that all future steak-nights now include long tongs, a tea towel, and a small dose of humility.
Key Takeaway
Don't throw steak into hot oil.
But if you do, cool, clear, cover and call (in) for help if needed
Want to learn more about first aid with real-life stories like this? or have one to share of your own? Get in touch.
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