DISCOVERING F.A.C.S. Kitchen Safety

DISCOVER... the causes of common kitchen accidents. ways to prevent common accidents from occurring in the kitchen.

Most Common Accidents Cuts Falls Electrical Shocks Burns Poisonings

These types of accidents and injuries are usually preventable if … people develop good, safe work habits.

Preventing Cuts Keep knives sharp Use knife only for cutting food. When using a knife, cut away from yourself Wash knives separately from dishes

To open cans, use a can opener that makes a smooth cut, not a jagged edge. Sweep up broken glass with a broom or a brush

Preventing Falls Spills cause falls. If you spill something on the floor wipe it up immediately! Use a ladder or a stepstool to reach high shelves. If the floor is wet, DO NOT walk on it.

If you have a rug in the kitchen make sure it has a nonskid back. Keep cabinet doors and drawers closed when not in use.

Preventing Shocks Never use an electrical appliance if your hands are wet. Keep electrical cords away from the sink and stove. Keep appliances in good working order. Hold the plug not the cord when you disconnect an appliance.

Don’t run electrical cords under a rug. If you can’t get food out of an appliance disconnect it. NEVER insert a fork or other object into the appliance. Don’t plug too many appliances into one outlet. You could get a shock or start a fire!

Preventing Burns and Fires Burns come from many sources in the kitchen. Hot equipment and steam are the most usual.

Always use a potholder to handle hot pans Always use a potholder to handle hot pans. Make sure the potholder is dry. When lifting a lid from a hot pan, tilt the cover at an angle away from you.

Wait until the range cools before you clean it. Turn the handles of pans toward the center of the range. When opening an oven door, stand to one side. To put pans in the oven or to remove them, use a potholder and pull out the oven rack.

Fires Keep flammable materials away from the range. Learn how to use a fire extinguisher. Don’t wear clothing with long loose- fitting sleeves when cooking. If your hair is long, tie it back.

Grease Fires Prevention: Keep equipment clean so grease doesn’t build up. Watch cooking foods carefully. DON’T Pour water on a grease fire. Carry the burning pan to the sink.

DO… Turn off the heat immediately. Pour salt or baking soda over the flames If salt or baking soda isn’t handy, cover the pan. If fire seems out of control, leave immediately. Alert others in the building and call fire department.

Preventing Poisoning Poisons can enter the body through drinking, breathing, and skin contact. Follow label directions exactly. If directions call for a well ventilated area, open windows and use a fan. NEVER mix household cleaners together!! You may need gloves or a mask

Spray containers can contain poisonous chemicals Spray containers can contain poisonous chemicals. (Never spray toward another person or inhale spray yourself.) Keep household chemicals in their original containers. Store chemicals carefully. NEVER store them in the same cabinet with food. Keep cleaners out of children’s reach. Get medical help immediately if someone is poisoned.

Many of the accidents that occur in the kitchen can be prevented. Follow the rules and make the kitchen a safe place to work!!!!!