- Make sure all wires, cords and plugs on your appliances are not frayed and that the plugs have 3-prong grounded connections. This would include coffee makers, toasters, blenders, microwaves, mixers, etc.
- Get rid of any appliance that is broken or damaged. New ones are very inexpensive these days. If a new one would bust your budget, try garage and tag sales (just make sure you’re not buying somebody else broken appliance).
- Put a childproof lock not only on the cabinets with your medicines and cleaning supplies, but also your oven.
- Avoid wearing inappropriate clothing while cooking. That means loose sleeves and sweaters.
- Keep dish towels, pot holders and oven mitts away from the stove.
- Keep matches and lighters in high places where curious little hands can’t reach them.
- If using candles in the kitchen, don’t leave the room (or home) while they’re burning. Make sure they are in a safe place and are in flame proof containers.
- Check furniture, curtains, dish towels, etc. to be sure they are not blocking heaters or vents.
- Keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen, but not near the stove or the heater.
- In case of a grease fire, salt and/or baking soda will help if you do not have a fire extinguisher.
- Always be sure the blender is unplugged before touching the blades.
- Be careful about sharp edges: scissors, broken glass, potato peeler, etc.
- Never ever, ever leave cooking foods unattended – not even for a minute.
- Casualness causes casualties – don’t answer or talk on the phone while cooking – you can be distracted and injuries can result
- Clean up spills immediately – wet floors are slippery when wet.
- Keep the kitchen floor clear or toys and other items.
- Be certain that walking areas are always clear of toys and other items.
- Keep young children out of the kitchen while cooking.
- Always use a step-stool to reach high places.
- Store cleaning supplies and all chemicals in a safe place. Use safety latches.
- Don’t use extension cords. You can obtain a junction box that has built-in GFI (ground fault interrupters). This will allow you extra plug in space and the GFI will kick in if there is a power shortage. Helps avoid water/electrical shock accidents.
- Don’t leave the kitchen with pots & pans cooking on the stove. Make sure to turn off burners as soon as you take the pot off.
- DON’T keep leftovers within reach of curious pets.
- DON’T defrost foods on the counter.
- DON’T leave foods out longer than two hours.