Keeping Safe in the Kitchen
- Dress for Safety:
- Tie back your hair and avoid wearing loose jewellery.
Knife Safety:
- Use the correct cooking knives, ensuring they are sharp. Blunt knives cause more injuries.
- Ensure work surfaces are stable and secure.
- When preparing vegetables, cut a thin slice lengthways to create a flat bottom, preventing the vegetable from moving while cutting.
- Keep your fingers out of the way by letting the knife rest alongside your knuckles, not your fingertips!
- Never use a knife as a can opener.
- When carrying kitchen knives, point them downwards, not outwards.
- Do not leave dirty knives in the washing-up sink; someone might cut themselves unknowingly.
Microwave and Hob Safety:
- Never put metal objects in the microwave.
- Position pan handles on the hob so they do not face outwards to avoid being knocked over.
Handling Hot Oil:
- Hot oil can be very dangerous. Never overheat oil, leave it unattended, or add water/liquid to hot oil as it will spit and burn.
- Do not pour oil down the sink. Wait for it to cool, transfer it to a bottle with a lid, and dispose of it in the rubbish.
Preventing Accidents:
- Wipe up spillages immediately to prevent slips.
- Never touch electric appliances with wet hands.
- Always use proper oven gloves for handling hot food. Do not use tea towels, especially damp ones, as they can burn.
Wound Care:
- Before cooking, ensure all wounds are properly covered.
Remember: Practicing these safety tips can help keep you and others safe in the kitchen. Enjoy cooking confidently and responsibly!
