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Be a clever cooker; keep kitchens safe.
Every year thousands of fires start in Canadian kitchens. Many cause serious injuries and death. Sparky suggests that following these simple guidelines when in the kitchen will help keep you and your family safe and prevent injuries.
Never leave cooking foods unattended - By staying in the kitchen you're able to watch what you're cooking and prevent problems from developing. When you finish using an appliance, promptly turn it off. Appliances such as toaster ovens and coffee pots can overheat if they're left on. Also be sure to unplug appliances that aren't in use.
Clean appliances regularly - Built-up fat on oven walls and in deep fryers can catch fire easily.
Deep fat fry only in a CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approved, thermostat-controlled appliance - Hot oil splashes and can very easily cause burns to anyone, including small children who may be in the kitchen helping. Without a lid the oil can also spill quite easily onto an open flame or heating element on which it is sitting and cause a fire. CSA approved appliances have locking lids and cool sides.
Keep flammable objects away from the stove area - Pot holders, dish towels and curtains, if they get too close to a heated stove element can start a fire. If you're wearing loose clothing, this can also catch fire if you come in close contact with the stove.
Turn in pot handles
Turn pot handles in - Young children are naturally curious and may want to see what's cooking or want to help by carrying pots. Keep them out of their reach to prevent anything from spilling and scalding them.
Microwaves can cause burns - Even though a microwave oven cools quickly after heating food, the contents that have been heated often stay hot. Use pot holders to remove any containers used to heat food. Remove covers carefully, as the steam inside can also burn.
Smother a grease fire - Never put water on a grease fire; it will cause the grease to spread out over a greater surface area. Put a lid on the pot and turn the burner off. If a fire starts in an oven, close the door and turn off the heat. If something in a microwave begins to burn, keep the door closed. Opening the door will introduce oxygen and feed the fire, keeping it burning. Only attempt to smother a fire if it is still inside a pot.
Leave the house and call the fire department (979-4422) - Sparky knows how important your homes and belongings are to you, as much as he values his own. But remember: material possessions can be replaced, your life or that of a loved one can't.
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