When it comes to food safety, proper handling and cooking knowledge in regards to the food itself is only half the battle.
It’s also important that you understand how to properly work with heat in order to prevent kitchen fires.
Kitchen fires are more than just the number one cause of house fires today. They’re also commonly exacerbated by inadequate knowledge of how to fight fires on the part of the cook. Here’s how to make sure you, your family, and your home don’t wind up sorry rather than safe.
Don’t Leave Food Unattended
Many kitchen fires start because food was left to cook unattended. If you need to be away from the kitchen, it’s much better to play things safe by temporarily turning off your broiler, burners, or oven and removing pots or pans from the heat altogether.
Keep Objects Away From the Stove
Many kitchen fires start because an item like a kitchen towel, an oven mitt, or even a stray cord from an appliance was left in the wrong place. Sometimes people’s clothing or hair has even been known to get in the way and cause fires or injury. Always make sure your cooking area is clear in order to avoid mishaps.
Be Prepared in Case of Fire
Although it’s always better to act in prevention of major catastrophes like fire, it’s also important to know what to do in case they happen anyway. Store a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and make sure the batteries in your smoke alarm are always fresh. Always have lids handy that fit the pots and pans you’re using to cook with so that you can smother a fire quickly should one break out. (Never try to put out a grease fire with water.) Also, have an escape plan in case a fire should burn out of control.
