In our home both the living room and kitchen are the heart and soul and where we meet to share our days. A delicious meal cooked in the kitchen leaves the family with happy stomachs, but there are actually several things in your kitchen that you should be cautious of, to avoid injury. Keep an eye out so no family member ends up with one of these 10 common kitchen injuries.
- Oven/Stove: This is likely one of the first things that came to mind when you thought kitchen injuries. Both of these appliances are capable of reaching painfully hot temperatures, so it’s important to use proper precaution and avoid burns. Move pot handles inward and keep flammable objects away from the burners.
- Spills: Get these cleaned up as soon as they happen. Getting to them right away keeps you from forgetting and avoids someone coming in behind you and slipping.
- Chemicals: Most of us probably have several cleaning products under the kitchen sink. If pets or small children get into these chemicals, the results could be very serious. It is a good idea to use cabinet locks to keep curious kids out.
- Peppers: Onions might make you cry, but hot peppers are capable of burning your skin. Try wearing gloves, and definitely avoid touching your eyes! We speak from experience!
- Falling Items: Avoid keeping your refrigerator and pantry overfilled. When you open your refrigerator, or when you’re looking for something in your pantry, the last thing you want is a heavy jar or can landing on your foot. Ouch!
- Can Lids: After you’ve opened a can, watch out for that sharp lid. Can openers with magnets are helpful, so that you don’t have to try digging out the lid yourself.
- Contamination: Clean cutting boards thoroughly, and avoid cleaning with overly dirty sponges. These items, along with others, can harbor bacteria and contaminate your food.
- Utensil Drawer: Keep those drawers neat and organized. Sharp items should be kept at the back of the drawer to avoid grabbing a sharp edge while searching for that ladle.
- Falling: Slipping on a spill is just one way you could fall in your kitchen. If you need some extra reach, be sure to use a stepladder rather than a chair (especially one with wheels).
- Cutting Board Slip: Another danger that probably comes to mind is a knife. Be sure to cut on a non-slip surface. No matter how many times you’ve used a cutting board, if it shifts while you’re cutting, it could lead to a painful and possibly serious injury.
Your kitchen should be a place to relax and enjoy delicious food, not worry about possible injuries. Be sure to take proper precaution, and you should be able to avoid most of these mishaps. If that misbehaving stove is becoming a possible danger, we’re more than willing to help. We’re happy to take your call at 844.3.GUINCO, and you can always visit us at Guinco.com. As always, Thank You For Letting Our Family Help Yours!