Kids in the Kitchen - Safe Choices and Practices

Creating your own snacks and treats for your family in the kitchen can be a lot of fun, but safety MUST come first.
 
Hot water and steam are the biggest cause of burns, but you can burn yourself on the edge of a hot pan, a spoon you used to stir with, and more!  And that tricky hot steam can come from many sources, including the microwave!

Here are some very important safety rules for kids in the kitchen:

- Turn on the cold tap first, then add hot water. Also remember to turn the hot OFF first.

- Plan ahead. Place a trivet or countertop protector down first and then carefully place the hot item on it.

- Wear clothing that fits your body, not loose and flowing, especially on your arms and wrists.

- Never carry a hot drink or pot around (get help).

- Never use the microwave without an adult helping.

- After microwaving, let food sit for up to two minutes before you touch it.

- If something in the microwave catches FIRE, keep the door closed and push OFF or STOP.

- If something on the stove has a lid, be careful when you take the lid off. HOT STEAM and splashes can happen.

- Have an adult help you choose the right containers for cooking.

- NO metal in the microwave – not even a piece of foil.

- Never heat anything in the microwave other than food.

- Always use oven mitts or pot-holders to remove containers from the microwave.

- Never put your face against the microwave oven when it is in use.

- Never turn on the microwave when it is empty.

- Let steam out of things you are cooking in the microwave by poking holes in the covering before starting or by using a container that allows steam to escape.

- If your toast gets stuck in the toaster, unplug the toaster and let it cool, then work the bread out.

- Every home kitchen should have a fire extinguisher rated ABC. (A for paper and wood, B for grease, C for electrical). Have an adult show you how to use it today!

If you accidentally get a burn:

- Wash the burned area with cold running water for 15 minutes. Do not use ointment or butter or any other kind of cream. Cover it loosely with a bandage. If it blisters, do not break the blister.

- If a burn is severe or covers a lot of your body, call 911 or get medical assistance right away!