If you are a beginner in the kitchen, or a pro that needs a refresher, read below for some of our suggested kitchen safety practices.

FALL SAFETY

  • Ensure that the kitchen floor is clear of toys or other items
  • Clean up spills immediately to avoid slippery floors
  • Use a step stool to reach high shelving

SHARP OBJECT SAFETY

  • Watch out for sharp edges on scissors, knives, potato peelers, broken glass, etc.
  • Unplug the blender or mixer before touching or cleaning the sharp blades
  • When using knives, always cut away from your body. Make sure to use a cutting board.

BURN SAFETY

  • Burning skin is a common kitchen injury. Make sure to pour hot water out of pots by turning the pot handles away from
  • Take caution when lifting lids from hot food – hot steam can burn!
  • Make sure to wear appropriate clothing in the kitchen. Avoid loose sleeves or sweaters. Wear shoes that cover your feet.
  • Use oven mitts or potholders to handle hot dishes
  • Never add water to a pan with hot oil in it. The oil may splatter and burn.
  • Burn first aid: If on fire, stop, drop, and roll. Hold the area under cool running water and cover the burn with a clean, dry sheet
  • Never stick a fork or knife into a toaster while plugged in to avoid electrocution.

FIRE SAFETY

  • Don’t leave the kitchen while pots & pans are on the stove. Turn off burners as soon as you are finished cooking.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen
  • Tie back long hair to prevent it from catching on fire
  • Keep electrical appliances and cords away from water and hot surfaces
  • Grease fires should be controlled with baking soda. Do not use water.
  • Electrical fires should be controlled with a fire extinguisher. Do not use water.

HYGIENE TIPS

  • Wash your hands with warm, soapy water before and after cooking
  • Do not use the same cutting board or surface to cut meats, fruits, and vegetables. This can cause cross-contamination and salmonella poisoning.
  • Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables with water before eating.
  • Do not let perishable food sit out for long periods of time or they may spoil.

CHILD SAFETY

  • Children should be supervised at all times in the kitchen
  • Store cleaning supplies, chemicals, and matches in a safe place with latches or child-proof locks
  • Turn pot handles towards the back of the stove so young ones can’t reach them
  • Make sure children do not put their hands in the mouths after touching raw food like cookie dough or meat