What should be used when lifting hot items to prevent burns?

Using thick, dry hot pads is the correct choice when lifting hot items to prevent burns because they provide a barrier between your skin and the heat. These hot pads are specifically designed to absorb heat and protect your hands, allowing you to lift hot containers or equipment safely. The thickness of the hot pads acts as insulation, reducing the risk of burns and enabling you to handle items safely, whether they are sizzling pans or baking trays just out of the oven.

Other options, such as wet pads or towels, can be dangerous as moisture can conduct heat and may actually increase the risk of burns when handling hot items. Plastic gloves typically do not provide adequate protection against heat, as they can melt or conduct heat to your skin. Using bare hands poses the highest risk of burns, as there is no protective barrier between your skin and the hot surfaces. Therefore, thick, dry hot pads are the best practice in this scenario for ensuring safety while handling hot items in the kitchen.