Kitchen Fire Safety for Kids
- Children are naturally curious about fire. Teach your children that fire isn't a toy and that hot things can burn them. Show them which items in the kitchen are dangerous and explain why. Create kitchen rules about when children may carry out activities in the kitchen (only with an adult). There are many dangers aside from fire that can cause harm in the kitchen such as hot, heavy pans that can be knocked over or pulled down onto a child, knives and electrical appliances. Take this opportunity to go over these other dangers with them as well. Children learn by example, so if you practice good habits in the kitchen, your children are likely to emulate you.
- Adults must always supervise children who are playing in the kitchen or participating in cooking activities. Children should not be left unattended in the kitchen for any length of time. It can take only seconds for a child to start a fire accidentally in the kitchen. Parents should also keep an eye on their children's behavior outside the kitchen and be aware of any evidence of a child playing with fire. If you notice burns on clothing or bedding or catch your child playing with matches, this is a good time to review fire safety with them. It will not help to scare them, but a frank discussion about fire can save lives.
- The U.S. Fire Administration advises that you keep children away from the area within three feet around the stove and anywhere that hot food and drinks are being prepared. Use the stove's back burners whenever possible and don't hold children when you are cooking or in contact with hot foods and liquids. Turn pot handles away from the edge of the stovetop and ensure that all appliance cords are coiled and not hanging over counter edges.
- Check all your kitchen equipement for faults and safety issues. Your appliances should be in good condition with no loose or frayed cords or broken plugs. Outlets should not be overloaded with plugs and extension cords should not be overused. Your home should contain ground-fault circuit interrupters and/or arc-fault circuit interrupters, which prevent electrical shock and fire. Contact a qualified electrician if you have questions about anything, including the installation of devices and other do-it-yourself projects. Replace or repair any appliances that spark, smell unusual or overheat. Finally, cover any unused outlets with plastic safety covers if toddlers or young children live in your home.
- You kitchen should be equipped with a smoke alarm, fire blanket and fire extinguisher. Be sure that every member of your household knows where these items are located and how to operate them. An adult should check the batteries in your smoke detector often. You should also learn first aid for burns, have a first aid kit handy in the kitchen and have a family fire plan in place. Education and prevention can go a long way with children--however it is important to be prepared in case an emergency happens anyway.
