by Sarah Staples

Created on: August 08, 2008   Last Updated: September 03, 2011

The kitchen is the heart of most homes, and as such can be a busy place. Unfortunately, the kitchen can also be a dangerous place, especially for children and the unaware. Dangers can lurk in all areas and accidents can easily occur. Following these simple tips will help you to practise safety in your kitchen.

1. Hygiene.

As the kitchen is primarily the place for food preparation, cooking and possibly eating, hygiene should be of upmost importance. A multitude of bacteria can reside on surfaces, chopping boards and utensils and these bacteria will cause disease unless correct precautions are taken.

All surfaces should be kept as clear as possible to allow thorough cleaning. Surfaces should be washed regularly, using dedicated cloths and ideally an antibacterial spray cleaner. You should use separate chopping boards for different foods, keeping the board you use for raw meat and fish separate and clearly identifiable. All equipment used should be washed immediately after use in hot soapy water, or a dishwasher.

Hand hygiene is of greatest importance. Hands should be washed with soap and water before food preparation and eating.

2. Sharp objects.

Kitchen knives and other sharp objects can be very dangerous, even to adults. All knives should be stored in a knife block or have a protective cover over the blade. Avoid simply placing an uncovered knife in to a drawer; it would be easy to sustain a cut when reaching in the drawer for something. If you have children ensure all sharp objects are kept out of reach or in a locked drawer.

3. Fire precautions.

Fire is a real risk in all kitchens. You may cook with a naked flame such as gas. You may use matches. You may use a deep fat fryer. Fire happens suddenly and can spread to involve the whole room and house rapidly. Fire kills.

Ensure you are aware when using matches, fryers and naked flames. Keep matches out of reach of children. Ideally have a fire blanket and extinguisher in the kitchen, and make sure you know how to use them. Ensure your home is fitted with appropriately placed smoke and heat detectors and check that they are working on a regular basis. Make sure your family have discussed a fire emergency plan.

If fire occurs in your home evacuate, call the emergency services and do not re-enter until you have been advised by the fire service that it is safe to do so. Only tackle a fire if it is safe to do so. Do not put yourself at greater risk.

4. Cleaners and chemicals.

The kitchen is a common place for the

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