Cooking can bring family and friends together, provide an outlet for creativity and can be relaxing. Safety in the kitchen is important, especially on Thanksgiving Day and the upcoming holiday season when there can be a lot of activity and people at home. But did you know that cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries? And, the leading cause of kitchen fires is unattended cooking!
Please consider the following safety tips:
- Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen, even for a short period of time, turn off the stove.
- If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in your home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, curtains, etc.) away from your stovetop.
- Have a “kid-free zone” of at least three feet around your stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried.
- To prevent child burns and injuries, be sure that electric cords from coffee makers, plate warmers, electric knives or mixers do not dangle off the counter within reach of a child.
- Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don’t use the stove or stovetop.
- Keep the floor in your cooking area clear of obstructions like children, pets, toys, bags, pocketbooks, etc.
Treat a Burn Right Away!
Cool the burn with cool water for 3 – 5 minutes. Cover it with a clean, dry dressing (cloth). Get medical help if needed.