1. Stick Around When Cooking
Cooking accidents are the leading cause of fire-related injuries for older Americans. The kitchen is one of the most loved, active, yet potentially dangerous rooms in the home. So, never leave your kitchen alone when you are cooking. Most kitchen fires occur because food is left unattended on the stove or in the oven. Try not to leave pots on the stove or in the oven unattended. If you must leave the kitchen while cooking, take a spoon or potholder with you to remind you to return to the kitchen. If you do have to leave the kitchen, turn off the heat.
2. Dress for the Occasion
Love to wear that cozy robe while cooking breakfast? Roll up those sleeves! It is dangerous to cook with loose, dangling sleeves that can ignite easily. Turn pot handles away from the front so no one can bump, snag a belt or sleeve, or knock a pan by accident, possibly splattering the hot contents and causing a burn.
3. Keep It Clean
Grease is not your friend in the kitchen. The most frequent kitchen fire involves oil or grease that ignites during meal preparation. Check your stove for grease build-up, don't forget the range hood. Whether cooking with gas or electric, never place anything on the stove you don't want to heat. An electrical coil reaches 800 degrees while a gas flame goes over 1000 degrees. Remember dish towels and pot holders ignite at 400 degrees. Make sure that all combustible materials, such as paper towels, grocery bags, hand towels and curtains are at least 3 feet away from the stove.
4. Take It Slow and Careful
Here are some general safety tips. Heat cooking oils gradually and use extra caution when deep-frying. If a fire breaks out in a pan, put a lid on the pan. Never throw water on a grease fire. Never use a range or stove to heat your home. Set the temperature of your water heater no higher than 120 degrees F (48.8 degrees C). This can help prevent accidental burns. Be sure not to overload your electrical outlets. Plug only one appliance into each electrical receptacle.
5. Plan Ahead
Others can help you keep your kitchen safe. Be sure your address can be easily seen from the street by rescue workers. If you have special needs, contact your local fire department. They may help you by checking your home and suggesting special fire and safety equipment.
