KITCHEN SAFETY

When you have a family and there are kids constantly around, we need to make sure that Kids are kept safe in the house as well as when they're outside or in the car.

All Dads need to be aware of the Dangers in and around the Kitchen. So take a look the follow safety tips.

Stove Safety

• Create a "safe zone" around the stove by marking an area off with masking tape. Teach older children to stay out of this area.
• Boil only enough water in the kettle for each use and pour out the rest. Avoid overloading outlets; this can cause electrical fires.
• Turn pot handles to the back of the stove.
• Use the back burners on the stove.
• Always stir and test foods and beverages warmed in the microwave before giving them to children.
• Microwaves heat unevenly and can leave some areas barely warm, while others are scalding hot.
• Infants' bottles with plastic liners can explode and should never be heated in the microwave.

Cupboards and Counter tops

• Store dishwasher detergent, laundry soap and other cleaning products up high where children can't reach them.
• Make a low cupboard the child's own place to play. Fill it with kitchen utensils that are not dangerous, such as plastic strainers, wooden spoons, or plastic mixing bowls.

At the Table

• Remove bones from meat and fish.
• Cut food into small pieces to prevent choking.
• Hot dogs are especially dangerous unless they're cut in half lengthwise and then into small pieces.
• Never feed a distressed child. This can often lead to choking.
• The edges of tablecloths can be pulled by young children. Place mats are safer.

This Article was kindly provided by The Nanaimo Fire Rescue, Fire Loss/Prevention Division.