Kitchen Hazards
Since families spend so much time in the kitchen, it's important to recognize common hazards and take steps to prevent them from happening.
Kitchen Equipment Concerns
Stove and Oven Hazards
Whether your stove is gas or electric, it can pose a safety risk for every member of the household. Many people have burned their hands on a hot stove, or as a result of reaching into an oven without a proper oven mitt.
The risk of burns, however, is not the only reason that stoves can be dangerous. Additional risks include:
· Drop-in stoves can tip over if not properly secured, particularly if someone leans on the open door when it is open. To prevent this type of kitchen hazard, verify that your stove is properly secured.
· Pans not safe for direct heat can shatter if placed directly on a hot cook top after being removed from the oven. Always use trivets beneath pans when removed from the oven, regardless of what surface they are being placed on.
· Leaving stove burners on under empty pots and pans can be a fire hazard. Verify that the burners are turned off when food is finished cooking.
· Pots and pans filled with hot food can easily be knocked off if the handles are not situated properly. Always turn handles so they are facing away from the front of edge of the stove.
· Failure to properly clean the oven can cause fires while cooking. Clean the oven regularly, and never leave an oven unattended while in use. Should the oven catch fire, leave the door closed, turn off the heat and call the fire department.
· Loose fitting gowns and robes can catch fire when draped onto hot burners or snag on pan handles spilling the hot contents on the user.
· Eliminate trip hazards such as throw rugs that can result in burns and other injuries.
Household Chemicals
Many people store their chemical products, such as cleaning supplies and insecticides in the kitchen. The most common storage spot for these types of products is underneath the sink. This places the products within easy reach of children, and even pets, if cabinet doors are not properly closed. Many of these products are harmful or fatal if ingested, and can also cause burns, skin irritation, and other problems.
It's essential to properly secure the doors of the area where any potentially dangerous chemicals might be stored. Additionally, some household chemicals, such as bleach and chlorine, should be stored in separate areas because they can produce a dangerous reaction if they come in contact with one another.
Be Aware of Kitchen Hazards
It's a good idea to periodically review how your kitchen is set up so you can make sure that everything is positioned and secured in a safe manner. It's also important to keep a fully- charged fire extinguisher and First Aid kit handy in case of a worst case scenario. When you are aware of the most common kitchen hazards, it's possible to take steps to prevent unnecessary injuries and accidents from occurring.