Chapter 20 Preventing Kitchen Accidents Kitchen Safety Basics

Chapter 20 Preventing Kitchen Accidents

Kitchen Safety Basics �Do not let hair, sleeves, or apron dangle: could catch fire or get tangled in appliances. �Keep your mind focused in what you are doing. �Prevent clutter: put items back when you are finished with them. �Close drawer/cabinets after you open them �Use the right tool for the job �Store heavy items on low shelves

Preventing Falls �Many accidents occur because of what is on the floor. �To prevent falls, keep the floor clean and free of clutter. �Wipe up spills, splatters, and peelings �Don’t wear untied shoes, floppy slippers, or long clothing.

Handling Sharp Edges �Cuts are an everyday hazard for the cook. �Keep knives sharp and use them properly �Use a drawer divider or knife rack for sharp tools �Don’t try to catch a falling knife �Don’t soak knives or sharp items in a sink with other utensils.

Preventing Fires and Burns �The range is the most likely place for fires or burns. � 1. � 2. � 3. � 4. Use pot holders or oven mitts When uncovering a pan; lift away from your face. Use only pots/pans in good condition Keep pan handles turned toward the back or middle to prevent spills/burns. � 5. Keep flammable items away from range � 6. Do not use plastic items near range � 7. Arrange oven racks properly before turning on heat � 8. Don’t reach into a hot oven; pull out rack � 9. Make sure to turn off appliances when finished � 10. Never leave appliances unattended.

If A Fire Starts �Range top or electric skillet: �Turn off the heat. Put the cover on the pan or pour salt or baking soda on the flames. **Never use water –the grease will splatter and burn you. �Oven, broiler, microwave, toaster oven: �Turn off or disconnect the appliance. Keep the oven door closed until the fire goes out. �***Do not open the oven door!!! *** �NEVER attempt to carry a pan with burning contents.

Handling Electricity and Chemicals �Electricity � Water and electricity don’t mix. � Combined they can cause serious shock. Never use an appliance with wet hands. Keep all appliances away from water. � Avoid damage to electrical cords. � Even a single exposed wire can cause a fire. Never try to disconnect an appliance by pulling on the cord. � Use outlets properly � Plugging in to many appliances can cause a fire � Use care with any plugged-in appliance. � Never put your fingers or a kitchen took inside an appliance that is plugged in. May cause shock, or injury. � Watch for problems. � Don’t try to use a damaged appliance.

Household Chemical Safety �Include: oven cleaners, lighter fluid, drain cleaners, pesticides, and polishes. �Some can cause burns, difficulty breathing, and poisoning. �Always read the label carefully before purchasing household cleaners. �NEVER mix different chemical products. �Can combing and cause toxic fumes. �Be sure to keep chemicals away from children and from coming in contact with food.

Cooking Outdoors Safely �Burning coals can generate up to 1, 000 degrees F. � Gives off large amount of carbon monoxide � Odorless, highly poisonous gas �Tips � Start with clean grill � Clean with a bristled brush � Level surface � Tip over-fire hazard � Fire Extinguisher � Always use outside � Do not use lighter fluid � Could trigger an explosion � Let coals burn to ashes when finished

Protecting Family Members �Children: �Children like to be where the adults are, especially when working in the kitchen. NEVER leave young children alone in the kitchen � Protect toddlers by using safety latches � Teach children to stay away from heat sources � If children want to help; set up a table for them to work at � Model safe working habits �

�Elderly or Handicapped �Changes in the workspace or equipment can help those with difficulties. � Keep a magnifying glass in the kitchen � Re-label in larger prints � Add more lighting � Store frequently used item in easy-to reach places � Use non-breakable dishes � Add a cart with wheels in the kitchen to help move things around.

Handling Emergencies �In spite of all precautions. . Accidents do happen. �Keep a list of emergency numbers next to the phone in the kitchen �Keep a first-aid kit and book with instructions handy.

First Aid Techniques �Heimlich Maneuver �Used in case of choking CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation � � Used if a person’s breathing and heart beat have stopped. �Knowing these techniques can help save a life!

Just in Case…. �If an accident does happen…. �Stay calm � Panic will only keep you from thinking clearly �Take a few deep breaths � Get yourself under control �Never hesitate to call for help � Better to ask for help and not need it, than to try to handle something on your own