Children and Adults Should Exercise Caution While Cooking

ROME, Ga., Nov. 26, 2024 – Home kitchens become bustling hubs of activity during this time of year as families prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. To prevent festivities from turning tragic, following some essential safety tips can help you avoid injuries.

Since most kitchens are filled with items that can cause burns or cuts if not handled carefully, the presence of children necessitates additional precautions.“Young kids should not be left alone in the kitchen without adult supervision,” said Melissa Parris, a registered nurse and coordinator of the Trauma Program at Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center. “That can be difficult when there are many family members present, but someone should be designated to watch the little ones.”

Avoid Burns

Ovens and stoves pose significant burn risks. Keep children away from hot surfaces, as they may attempt to grab objects within reach. Ensure that handles of pots and pans on the stove are turned inward toward the back of the stove.
This precaution prevents scalding accidents involving hot oil, boiling water, or food. Although it may complicate cooking, it can avert emergency medical visits.“We see lots of burn cases where children pulled something hot off the stove,” Parris said. “That simple act of rotating pots so the handles can’t be reached is an easy safety move.”
Exercise caution when moving food from the stove to the table, counter or another room. Collisions with others could result in severe injuries or ruined meals. Never hold a child while cooking, as they could easily get burned or cut.
Keep oven mitts or pads near the stove and within sight to prevent burns from inadvertently handling hot cookware. Be cautious with glass top stoves, which might remain hot even if the warning light is off.
Promptly clean any spills on the floor to prevent slips, which could lead to serious injuries and spilled hot food or liquids.
Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing near the stove, as it poses a fire hazard. Long hair should be secured, following the standards of most restaurant kitchens. Ensure a fire extinguisher is readily accessible in the kitchen and familiarize yourself with its use. Kitchen fires can escalate quickly, particularly in the presence of hot oil.
Preventing Cuts

Knives should be used with care to avoid serious injuries. Store knives safely and out of children’s reach when not in use.

And remember, a dull knife is more dangerous than a sharp one, as it requires more force to cut and increases the risk of accidents.
Avoid placing sharp knives in the sink while washing dishes by hand to prevent accidental cuts. Clean knives first and store them securely.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safer cooking environment during the holiday season.