Amica shares tips for National Burn Awareness Week

02/08/2019 LINCOLN, R.I.

One way to warm up during the winter is by cooking a comforting meal in the kitchen. With National Burn Awareness Week upon us, it’s a good time to practice kitchen fire safety.

Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries and, in less than 30 seconds, a small flame can get completely out of control. Help prevent an accident in the kitchen with these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Turn down the heat. If you see any smoke or the grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
• Place objects so that they can’t be pulled down or knocked over.
• Turn pot handles away from the stove's edge.
• Use dry oven mitts or potholders. Hot cookware can heat moisture in a potholder or hot pad, resulting in a scald burn.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Have a "kid-free zone of at least three feet around the stove.

If you or a family member gets burned or scalded:

• Treat a burn right away by putting it under cold water for three to five minutes.
• Cover the burn with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply creams, ointments, sprays or other home remedies.
• Get medical help right away.