While a stove is one of the most important features of a kitchen, it can pose a significant danger if it isn’t properly used or maintained. This appliance causes many accidental burns and fires each year, so be extra cautious and practice stove safety. Here are a few tips to keep your home and family out of harm’s way.

How to Avoid Stove Mishaps

1. Use Safety Features

Look for safety features that remind you when a burner is left on and lets you know if the surface is still hot. Once the appliance is purchased, register it with the manufacturer to ensure you receive any recall notifications, and have it professionally installed to prevent wiring or clearance issues. If you have young children, put knob stops over the dials so that they can’t turn on the burners.

2. Never Leave It Unattended

Regardless of what you’re cooking, it should never be left unsupervised, even for a few minutes. Stay close to stop a potential fire or accident from getting out of control. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it correctly.

3. Keep It Clean

It’s common for food, oil, and grease to splash and boil over onto the stove when cooking. Although it’s tempting to leave the mess for later, doing so will make it harder to clean and create a fire hazard. Wipe the area after every use to keep food particles from building up.

4. Prevent Burns

Get in the habit of using the back burners whenever possible and turn pot handles to the side so that they’re out of reach. Teach children to avoid touching the stove and instruct them to always stay at least three feet away from it. Don’t wear long sleeves and keep your hair tied back when cooking to prevent them from making contact with the heat.

A broken or outdated stove can be a fire hazard; and if you want to replace it, contact the helpful team at Discount Mutual in Honolulu, HI. For over 50 years, this family-owned business has provided Oahu homeowners with affordable, high-quality appliances from the industry’s leading brands. Dedicated to customer service, their expert technicians can even deliver and install your stove. Learn more about their appliances online, or call (808) 591-9441 to inquire about their current inventory.