• Departments & Offices
• Environmental Health & Safety
• Fire Safety
• Cooking Safety

Cooking Safety: Avoiding Recipes for Disaster

Use the Right Stuff

• Use high-quality cookware and utensils.
• Follow the provided cookware instructions and pay special attention to maximum oven temperatures.
• Plug microwaves, toasters and other cooking appliances directly into a wall outlet. Extension cords easily overheat and could catch fire.

 Watch What You Heat

• Do not leave the kitchen while cooking, because unattended food is the primary cause of kitchen fires.
• Turn off the stove or oven if you must leave the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food.
• Set a timer and remain in the building if simmering, baking, roasting or boiling food.
• Do not cook while sleepy, intoxicated or on medications that make you drowsy.

Don’t Fuel the Fire

• Flammable items such as potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, towels and curtains should never be placed on or near a hot surface.
• Clean the stovetop, burners and oven between uses to avoid buildup.
• Don’t allow clothing or hair to dangle over a hot surface.

Prevent and Treat Burns

• Avoid spilling or splashing hot food or liquids.
• Keep pot handles turned away from the edge of the stove and use the back burner when possible.
• When moving hot food or cookware, use oven mitts or potholders that are dry and in good condition.
• If you get burned, place the affected area under cool, running water for three to five minutes. Never treat a burn with ice. Seek medical attention for follow-up treatment.