Microwave ovens have simplified cooking and reheating foods in homes every where. However, according to the National Fire Protection Association, microwave use results in thousands of home fires each year. Microwave burns cause more emergency room scald burn injuries than any other cooking device.
With such widespread use of microwaves by people of all ages, it’s important for consumers to know how to use them safely.
With such widespread use of microwaves by people of all ages, it’s important for consumers to know how to use them safely.
Avoiding Microwave-Related Fires and Burns
Microwaves
Augusta Fire Rescue
Augusta Fire Rescue wants to give you simple tips to help prevent microwave fires and scald burns:
• Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a microwave oven.
• Plug the microwave directly into an outlet. Using an extension cord can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Use only microwave-safe cookware.
• Open food heated in the microwave slowly, and hold it away from your face to prevent scalding from steam.
•Never heat a baby bottle in a microwave oven because it heats liquids unevenly. Heat baby bottles in warm water.
• Never use aluminum foil or other metal objects in the microwave.
• If you have a fire in your microwave, turn the oven off immediately and keep the door closed. Do not open the door until the fire is completely out. Have the microwave serviced before using it again. When in doubt, just get out of the home and call the fire department.
• Plug the microwave directly into an outlet. Using an extension cord can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Use only microwave-safe cookware.
• Open food heated in the microwave slowly, and hold it away from your face to prevent scalding from steam.
•Never heat a baby bottle in a microwave oven because it heats liquids unevenly. Heat baby bottles in warm water.
• Never use aluminum foil or other metal objects in the microwave.
• If you have a fire in your microwave, turn the oven off immediately and keep the door closed. Do not open the door until the fire is completely out. Have the microwave serviced before using it again. When in doubt, just get out of the home and call the fire department.
