According to the latest reported figures, accidents related
to cooking caused more residential fires than any other known cause.
There are things you can do to help keep your kitchen and your family
safe.
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Keep small children at a safe distance from hot
liquid, both at the table and the stove.
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When children are nearby, use placemats on the table
rather than a tablecloth. A child may try to pull himself up by
the tablecloth and a heavy object or hot liquid could fall on the
child. Keep all hot items near the center of the table.
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When cooking, keep small children away from the
area or in a high chair or playpen. Keep pot handles turned in so
they cannot be reached by a small child. If practical, use the back
burners when cooking.
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Parents are encouraged to avoid the use of deep
fryers/cookers when young children are present in the home. The
grease may reach over 400 degrees and can cause extremely severe
burns.
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Keep a fire extinguisher in a convenient and safe
location. If a fire occurs, call the fire department after getting
everyone OUT OF THE HOUSE. The fire extinguisher may be considered
for use only after everyone is safe.
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When working around the stove, give special attention
to the clothing you wear. Full or fluffy sleeves and other loose
clothing present a greater risk of catching fire than short sleeves
or snug-fitting clothes.
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If a burn occurs...
- Immediately cool the burn with cold water.
- Cover with a sterile pad or clean sheet and seek medical help
immediately.
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The vapor in a bag of microwaved popcorn may exceed
180 degrees. Use caution when opening the bag and always follow
directions using a microwave.
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Be sure babysitters and others who care for your
child are aware of basic safety procedures to follow in the home
and kitchen.