In-home Safety Preparedness List

Fire Safe Kitchen — What Should I Do?

Keep Cooking Surfaces Clean and Clutter Free

• Keep appliances free of spills and grease that may catch fire.
• Keep curtains, dish towels, plastic containers and pot holders away from hot surfaces.

Operate Microwave Ovens Safely

• Always use pot holders or oven mitts to remove food from microwaves.
• Be careful when removing a wrapper or cover from microwaved food. Steam escaping from the container can cause a burn.

Take Care of Electrical Cords

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets with too many kitchen appliances.
• Check electrical cords and plugs and discard them if they are damaged.
  
  

• Purchase and install working smoke alarms. Special alarms with a pause feature are available for the kitchen to prevent nuisance alarms.
• Test smoke alarms monthly. For battery operated smoke alarms, replace the batteries at least once a year. Keep a record when batteries are changed. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for other maintenance information.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for other maintenance information.

How Can I Cook Safely?

• Never leave cooking unattended. Oil or fat can easily ignite.
• Always turn elements off when you are finished cooking.
• Turn off or unplug electrical appliances when you are finished using them.
• Keep children a safe distance from the cooking area.
• Cooking requires you to be alert. Avoid cooking when under the influence of alcohol or medications.

Wear Short or Tight-Fitting Sleeves

• Avoid loose sleeves that may dangle into flames or onto hot elements.
• Keep the area around your stove free from items that may burn.

Turn Pot Handles In

• Prevent burns by turning pot handles towards the back of the stoves when cooking. By doing this pots can not be pulled or knocked off the stove.
• Whenever possible use rear elements.