Three out of every ten reported home fires start in the kitchen - more than any other place in the house. The majority of kitchen fires can be traced to unattended cooking. Turn off and unplug all appliances when not in use. Periodically check on food being cooked in an oven, microwave, or on the stove. Anyone who is responsible for a child’s safety—including parents, grandparents, babysitters, and older siblings—must have a basic understanding of the fire and burn risks in the kitchen.

• Keep children at a safe distance from all hot liquids. A child’s quick movements can knock a cup over or out of your hand, causing a burn.
• When toddlers are in the home, avoid using a tablecloth. If a child tries to pull himself up by the tablecloth, a heavy object or hot liquid from the table could fall on the child.
• Keep all hot items near the center of the table—at least 12 inches from the edge—to prevent a young child from reaching them.
• While cooking, keep young children in a highchair or playpen at a safe distance from hot surfaces, hot liquids, and other kitchen hazards. If you allow older children to cook, supervise them closely and teach them safe cooking practices.
• Use extra caution if you use deep fat (oil) cookers/fryers when young children are present. The fat or oil may reach temperatures over 400 degrees F. Hot grease, fat, and oils can very quickly cause severe burns.
• Use caution when using electrical appliances. Never plug more than one high wattage appliance into a single outlet. Check appliances for frayed or cracked cords and have them repaired by a professional technician if needed. Never stand in or near water when using electrical appliances.
• Keep appliance cords away from the edge of counters. A dangling cord is dangerous because it can be caught in a cabinet door or pulled on by a curious child.
• Have plenty of fire-resistant potholders and oven mitts ready for use while cooking.
• Keep pot handles turned in so the pots cannot be pulled or knocked off the stove.
• Store cookies and other foods away from the stove area, so no one will be tempted to reach across a hot burner. Store potholders, paper towels, seasonings and other cooking items at a safe distance from the stove.
• Keep the stovetop clean and clear. Store combustible materials away from heat sources.
• Be careful when using turkey fryers. Always thaw the turkey completely before placing it in the fryer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use. Always use them outdoors, never overfill them, and do not move the fryer once it’s in operation.