How to Design a Safe Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the busiest, most accident-prone rooms in the house. Design a kitchen that will keep your family and guests safe.
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You Will Need
- Appliances with a lock-out option
- A fire extinguisher
- Slip-resistant flooring
- A safe cooktop
- Proper lighting
- Anti-scald controls
- Non-slip throw rugs (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Design
Design a floor plan that routes traffic away from the cooking area. Avoid putting appliances near an entrance or exit.
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Step 2
Protect children
Protect children by purchasing appliances that provide a programmable lockout system or with lockout covers.
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Step 3
Keep fire extinguisher
Keep a fire extinguisher near a room exit. Never store it near or beneath a cooktop or stove.
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Step 4
Use slip-resistant flooring
Use slip-resistant flooring, such as laminate, textured tile, matte-finished wood, or soft glazed ceramic tile.
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Use throw rugs with non-slip backings for added precautions.
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Step 5
Purchase cooktop
Purchase a safe cooktop with controls in the front or along the side of the unit. Look for a cooktop where the burners are staggered or are in one straight row.
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Step 6
Keep away from water
Keep plugs, electrical switches, and lighting fixtures away from water sources. All electrical receptacles should be grounded and protected with ground-fault circuit interrupters in case there is a power surge or moisture.
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Step 7
Provide good lighting
Provide good lighting throughout the kitchen, especially above areas where you prepare food.
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Lighting should not produce shadows or glares on a work surface.
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Step 8
Regulate water
Prevent water from getting to dangerous heat levels by installing faucets with anti-scald devices.
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Hot tap water is responsible for more deaths and hospitalizations than burns from any other hot liquids.
