Kitchen Safety: Simple Steps to Protect Your Home

Cooking should be fun, not risky. Keep a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach, and make sure it’s the right type for grease fires. A quick check before you start—no loose sleeves, no clutter around the stove—can stop a small spark from becoming a big problem.

Preventing Fires and Scalds

Never leave pans unattended, especially when they’re heating oil or butter. If a pot starts to boil over, turn the heat down right away. Keep flammable items like dish towels, paper towels, and wooden utensils away from burner flames. When you’re frying, use a splatter guard; it catches hot oil droplets and reduces the chance of burns.

If a fire does start, remember the PASS technique: Pull the plug, Aim the extinguisher at the base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. Never try to move a burning pan—its handle can get super hot and cause burns.

Safe Use of Appliances

Before you plug in any appliance, inspect the cord for cuts or fraying. A damaged cord can spark and start a fire. For ovens, microwaves, and toasters, clean crumbs and food debris regularly; leftover grease is a hidden fire starter.

When using a dishwasher or washing machine nearby, make sure the area stays dry. Water and electricity don’t mix well, and a wet floor can lead to slip‑and‑fall injuries. If an appliance makes strange noises or smells burnt, turn it off and call a professional—don’t keep guessing.

Keep the top of the fridge clear so you can easily reach food without hopping on chairs. Overloading shelves can cause items to fall, break, or create sharp edges that hurt kids.

Kids love to help, but the kitchen is a hazard zone. Use child‑proof locks on cabinet doors that hold knives or heavy pots. Teach them to stay at least three feet away from hot burners, and always use back burners when possible. If you have pets, keep them out of the kitchen while cooking; they can knock over hot pans or chew cords.

Finally, make a habit of doing a quick safety sweep before you start cooking: check that the stovetop is clean, the fire extinguisher is charged, cords are in good shape, and no one is wandering nearby. A few seconds of extra attention saves a lot of trouble later.