What is a Steam Burn?
A steam burn is a burn caused by steam, usually from boiling water. Minor steam burns can happen in any kitchen, but a steam burn can also be very severe. Although the skin will not be charred, as would be the case with a flame burn, blisters and redness will appear. A third degree steam burn will penetrate deep into the flesh, and may be white, heavily blistered, and numb. The larger concern with steam burns is the airway, however. Inhaling steam can cause serious damage to the bronchial tubes, and could potentially lead to death. The steam rising from boiling water exceeds 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). Pure steam is actually an invisible vapor, but the small drops of condensed water which hover over hot pans can still cause a severe burn, even if they are not technically steam. True steam can be especially dangerous because it is invisible, so someone will not be aware that they are in danger of a steam burn until it has already happened. The severity of a steam burn
A steam burn is a burn caused by steam, usually from boiling water. Minor steam burns can happen in any kitchen, but a steam burn can also be very severe. Although the skin will not be charred, as would be the case with a flame burn, blisters and redness will appear. A third degree steam burn will penetrate deep into the flesh, and may be white, heavily blistered, and numb. The larger concern with steam burns is the airway, however. Inhaling steam can cause serious damage to the bronchial tubes, and could potentially lead to death.
