A large amount of home injuries happen in the kitchen, where fire and sharp objects lurk around every corner. To help, USAHS Occupational Therapy faculty member Dr. Terri Roberts offers these kitchen safety tips if you are going to make a holiday feast for your family:
– Always use oven mitts when handling hot pots and pans. Keep an abundance of these in close reach so you’re never tempted to swap for a dish towel.
– Do not leave food cooking on the stove unattended. Let that phone call go unanswered and the doorbell ring if necessary.
– Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry while cooking. Consider changing into tighter, safer clothing before you hit the kitchen to cook.
– Keep kids and pets out of the kitchen. If you don’t have a door to the kitchen, use a baby gate to keep that curious pup at a safe distance.
– Be sure to wash your hands frequently, especially if handling meat. Remember to wash frequently between tasks to avoid cross contamination.
– Have a fire extinguisher on hand. Do you know how to handle a fire if it pops up? Make sure to be prepared for the worst, but hope for the best.
Source: University of St. Augustine For Health Sciences
