Let's all Cook!

Safety Rules in the Kitchen

Before beginning any recipe, get an adult's permission to work in the kitchen. If your recipe uses knives, the stove, or other kitchen appliances, you must have your adult assistant nearby. Some things that your mom or dad uses in the kitchen may seem simple to operate, but once you use them yourself, you might be surprised by how difficult they are. By having your assistant around, you can avoid surprises, stay safe, and have fun while you cook.

Keeping a Clean Kitchen
A big part of safe cooking is keeping the chef and the kitchen clean. The idea is to keep germs, which can make you sick, out of your food. Always wash your hands immediately before you begin any recipe - this is especially important for recipes that involve touching the food directly, like kneading dough or mixing with your hands. Remember, don't lick your fingers when you are cooking. You should always wash your hands before and after handling raw meat, poultry, egg, and fish products because these items may have bacteria in them, too. Your working surfaces (like countertops and cutting boards) should be clean and dry.

Wearing an apron will keep your clothes clean. If you don't have an apron, an old T shirt will do, but don't use a smock! Big, loose clothes are bad news in the kitchen because the sleeves can catch fire if you reach over something hot. You can skip the chef's hat, but it's smart to tie back long hair so it doesn't get in the food or catch fire if it gets near something hot.

After you've finished, don't forget to wash your hands well again.

Using the Kitchen Safely
You have your ingredients neatly lined up, your hands washed, and your measuring spoons out. But before you start, it's a good idea to learn a few rules of the kitchen.

The same goes for the stove or oven: get permission first. Always use potholders or oven mitts when handling hot pots, pans, or baking trays - no dishtowels, which can catch on fire. Turn pot and pan handles toward the back of the stove so you won't knock them over by accident.

Some Final Safety Hints
Think you have the hang of knowing when to ask for help, the best way to keep things clean, and how to be a safe chef? Check out these hints for extra credit in the kitchen:

Always wash your hands immediately before each recipe
Never run in the kitchen.
Spill something on the floor? Clean it up right away, so no one slips. And of course, wash your hands when you're done.
If you're ever unsure of directions or how to use a utensil or appliance, ask for help!