The kitchen is often the heart of the home, but with hot surfaces, sharp tools and plenty of distractions, it can also be a place where accidents happen. Sharon Henry, MD, critical care surgeon at Shock Trauma, shares simple, practical tips to help you cook with confidence and keep everyone safe.
Keep these tips in mind whenever you are cooking meals:
1. Keep Your Kitchen Clutter-Free
Before you start cooking, take a moment to clear your countertops. A tidy workspace helps prevent spills, falls, and accidents. Store sharp tools and hot pans away from the edges and keep pathways clear for easy movement.
2. Be Fire-Wise
Cooking fires are one of the leading causes of holiday accidents. To stay safe:
- Never leave food unattended on the stove.
- Keep flammable items, like towels and paper, away from heat sources.
- Know where your fire extinguisher is—and how to use it.
- For grease fires, cover the pan with a lid and turn off the heat. Never use water.
3. Use Appliances Responsibly
Baking and cooking often involve using mixers, blenders, and other equipment. Always:
- Read instructions before using them.
- Keep cords dry and away from hot surfaces.
- Unplug appliances when not in use.
- Supervise children around electrical devices.
4. Prevent Burns and Scalds
Hot liquids and steam can cause serious injuries. Use oven mitts, turn pot handles toward the back of the stove and lift lids away from your face to avoid steam burns.
5. Handle Knives Safely
Sharp knives are safer than dull ones—but only if used correctly. Avoid a “BRI (Bagel-Related Injury)” or “Avocado Hand” by always slicing away from your body and cutting on a stable surface. Store knives securely when not in use.
6. Avoid Cross-Contamination
Food safety is key to a healthy holiday. Wash hands often, use separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce, and cook foods to their proper temperatures. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
7. Stay Focused
Save the wine for after the cooking. Stay alert and avoid distractions when handling hot or sharp items. Keep tripping hazards, such as children and animals, out of the kitchen and from being underfoot.
8. Involve Kids Safely
Cooking with kids can be fun and educational. Assign age-appropriate tasks, keep them away from hot surfaces and teach them basic safety rules.
9. Dress for Safety
Avoid loose sleeves that can catch fire or get caught in appliances. Tie back long hair and wear non-slip shoes to prevent falls.
10. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Keep emergency numbers handy, know basic first aid, and consider registering for a free Stop the Bleed class in your community. Quick action can make a big difference in case of burns, cuts, or allergic reactions.
Final Thought
A few simple precautions can make a big difference. Keep safety in mind every time you cook, and you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever the kitchen brings your way.
Watch a Video
In this Your Health segment, Dr. Sharon Henry demonstrates how to stop uncontrolled bleeding, the primary cause of preventable death from trauma. Dr. Henry is a critical care surgeon and Director of Wound Health and Metabolism at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center.