The kitchen can pose many safety hazards, especially fires when using electrical and gas appliances. The following are some general tips to ensure your kitchen is a safe environment.
Put a lid on it! Always keep a large lid near the stove when you are cooking. If a pot catches fire, slide the lid over the pot and turn off the stove. Never put water on a burning pot or try to move the pot to the sink.
Keep an eye on your frying. Never leave cooking unattended, particularly if you are using oil or high temperatures. A stovetop fire can start in a flash, so keep a close eye on your cooking at all times.
Do not reach over a hot burner. Wear tight-fitting or rolled-up sleeves when cooking.
Fight or flight? A fire extinguisher is a useful safety item only if you know how to use it. Use a multi-purpose listed extinguisher that is right for your kitchen. Fire extinguishers must only be used on small, contained fires. Never allow the fire to get between you and your exit.
Clear the clutter. Combustible items, such as wooden or plastic cooking utensils, dishcloths, paper towels and pot holders, can easily ignite if they are too close to a burner. Keep all combustible items a safe distance from your stove.
Cool a burn. If you experience a kitchen burn, immediately run cool water over the wound for several minutes. The water will prevent further burning and relieve the pain. If the burn is severe, seek medical attention.
Prevent fire: use a fryer. Deep fat frying is a major kitchen hazard. Oil heated in a pot on the stove can easily overheat and burst into flames. Fire departments recommend that you use only a thermostatically-controlled deep fat fryer.
Snooze-you lose. Many night time fires are caused by people attempting to cook while under the influence of alcohol. Do not let this happen in your home. Keep a close eye on drinkers and install a smoke alarm on every level of your home.
Test your smoke alarms. According to Ontario law, all residences must have working smoke alarms. Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and near bedrooms. Test your smoke alarms every month and change the batteries at least once a year.
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