Did you know cooking is the No. 1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries?
Each year, UofL Health – UofL Hospital’s only dedicated Burn Center in the state of Kentucky treats patients with chemical, electrical, flame/thermal and scald burns, as well as complex wounds and skin conditions.
With the hazards kitchens pose, the National Fire Protection Association encourages you to remember the following when you are cooking:
- If you are frying, boiling, grilling or broiling food—stay in the kitchen. Food shouldn’t be left unattended.
- When baking, roasting or simmering food, be sure to check it regularly.
- Keep a lid nearby when cooking. If a small grease fire begins, you can slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not uncover the pan until it has cooled completely.
- Keep items away from your stovetop that could catch fire, including loose clothing.
- It is best to keep children away from areas where hot food and drinks are being prepared.
- Handles of pans should be turned sideways or to the back of stove so they cannot be easily knocked off.
- If a pan or skillet is on fire or has hot food and grease, do not try to take the pan outside.
- Remember to regularly test your smoke detectors once a month and replace batteries routinely.
- Talk to your family and create a home fire escape plan.
Learn more about the Burn Center at UofL Hospital.
