- Never
leave the kitchen while cooking. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off
the heat source.
- Keep
cooking equipment and exhaust hood clean of grease and oil.
-
Keep clothing, towels, and pot holders away from heat source of flames.
- Do
not use flammable liquids in or near the kitchen. Vapors may travel several
feet and ignite from a flame or pilot light.
-
Never pour water on a grease fire or carry a pan that is on fire.
Turn the burner off and cover the pan with a metal lid or metal baking pan.
-
Microwaves can cause burns. The vapor from a popcorn bag may be 180 degrees
F.
-
Check the cords on all appliances. If they are worn or frayed, have them
replaced.
-
Do not overload electrical outlets.
-
Turn pot handles so children can't pull them down. Use the rear burners
when possible.
-
Place a multipurpose fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
-
Don't place or use any appliances near water.
- Avoid
reaching over the stove for anything while cooking. Store frequently needed
items in other areas of the kitchen.
- Keep
children a safe distance from the cooking area.
-
Avoid wearing loose fitting clothing, such as robes or long sleeves, while
cooking. The burners may cause them to easily ignite.
- Heat
oil slowly over moderate heat and never leave hot oil unattended.
Each
year, there are approximately 17 million kitchen fires in the U.S. Nearly 400
persons are killed each year by kitchen fires. Most of these fires can be prevented
simply by following the basic fire-safety tips listed below.