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| Fire
Prevention in the kitchen (or how not to
have the Fire Department as unexpected guests!) |
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| Did you know that one-fifth
of all home fires in the U.S. start in the kitchen? The reason
is due to the constant potential for fire there. For instance,
if you cook two meals a day, each day of the year...that's
actually 730 fires! Controlled...we hope, but none-the-less,
potential fire hazards! Let's help you make sure that the fire
department does not become surprise dinner guests.
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- The most frequent
kitchen fire involves oil or grease that ignites during
meal preparation. Care should be taken to prevent grease
build-up. In the stove or range hood.
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- Water should never
be used on such fires, as it will cause the burning liquid
to spatter, spreading the fire. Have a lid for every pan
or skillet that is in use. Put out fires by using the lids
to shut off the oxygen to the fire.
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- Trying to carry a
burning pan outdoors or to the sink often results in
spilling the liquid, which causes burn injuries and also
permits the fire to spread. Remember, put a lid on it!
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- While cooking, don't
wear loose clothing, and be very careful not to reach
across a burner at anytime. Garments with long, draping
sleeves or light-weight sheer materials can catch fire by
simply brushing against a hot burner.
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- Be careful in removing
any pans from the stove - always use a hot pad. In
households with small children, handles of pots and pans
should be turned in so a child cannot reach them and
receive a serious scald burn.
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- Whether cooking with gas or
electric, never place anything on the stove you don't
want to heat. An electrical coil reaches 800° while a
gas flame goes over 1000°. Remember dish towels &
pot holders ignite at 400°.
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- Supervise the very
young and elderly. Teach the children not to play around
the stove, and never leave a stove that is unattended!
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- Keep a fully charged,
approved fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen, and know
how to use it! Remember, never throw water on a
grease fire!
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| Family meetings to discuss escape
routes in case of fire are a must. Every room should have
two escape routes; use rope ladders from windows if
necessary. Children should be taught how to open windows
and climb to safety. Meet at your pre-established meeting
place after leaving your house. |
