Safe and SoundHome Safety
We take our household appliances for granted but do you worry that your refrigerator isn't quite cold enough or that your microwave isn't truly safe? Keeping these machines in tip-top shape is essential to a healthy home. This primer provides the information and helpful tips on how to do just that.
Most of us have more appliances than ever before. Whether they're designed to help us get things done faster (like the microwave) or actually do the job for us (like the dishwasher), all of these devices are designed to make life easier while being easy to use. The trick, of course, is making sure we're using them properly.
Whether you already have questions about certain gadgets (for example, whether microwaves are truly safe) or just want to learn more about little-known household hazards, here are a few helpful pointers about some of the most common modern conveniences around the house.
Cold facts about your fridge
Refrigerators, of course, are designed to keep our food fresh and safe. However, if they're not cold enough or cleaned on a regular basis, bacteria can grow inside. Check the temperature of your fridge and freezer. Fridges should be set below 4oC (40oF); freezers need to be kept at -18o(0oF) or colder. Also, avoid overloading either compartment as air needs to circulate to keep food properly chilled.
Cleaning both the fridge and freezer regularly is another must. In fact, cleaning the outside is useful, too. Once a month, pull out the fridge, unplug it, and dust the back coils (where hot air is exhausted). This will help the appliance work more efficiently and avoid unnecessary energy costs.
Hot-topic tips for stove and oven safety
Anyone who has used a stove is familiar with basic cooking tips: Never leave a pot unattended, avoid wearing loose clothing and ensure that anything flammable (paper towels, dish cloths, oven mitts) is far from the heat source. Still, depending on the type of stove, there are other safety smarts to remember.
If you own a gas oven, you want to ensure there are no leaks. If any parts appear rusty or old, have them replaced and if you hear hissing or smell gas and can't identify the cause, turn the gas off at the source, open your windows and call 911.
If your oven is electric, maintenance is key, too. Cleaning the oven regularly and keeping the area under the burners clear of debris will avoid potential flare-ups. In the event of a cooking fire, never turn on the overhead fan as this can actually spread the flames.
Helpful instructions for the microwave
Most of us know how to use a microwave oven safely-no aluminum foil, no metal containers or any container (such as margarine or yoghurt tubs) not designed for microwave use. But, did you know microwave ovens also need maintenance?
Microwave ovens use radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic energy to cook food. This energy may leak from your oven, but poses no health risk if the oven is maintained. Be safe. Keep the door and seal clean. If there is any damage to the door, hinges or screen contact the manufacturer or a service technician to inspect it. And, if the door doesn't close or is bent, don't use it.
Make sure your home is dishwasher safe
Dishwashers are incredibly safe to operate, but recent reports show children can be injured if they play near them. The cause of concern-and injury-is the sharp metal edge under the dishwasher door. To be on the safe side, don't let children sit, crawl, lie or play around the dishwasher, and take care when cleaning or wiping the appliance.
Clearing the air about humidifiers
Portable humidifiers can be a big help in winter. Their fine mist reduces dryness and makes it easier to breathe. But, if not properly maintained, they can have the reverse effect and contribute to breathing difficulties for those with asthma or allergies.
If water is left to sit in the humidifier when it's not in use, bacteria can collect and multiply. When the humidifier is turned back on, spores of bacteria can be released into the air. To ensure your humidifier-and your air-is clean, disinfect the water reservoir regularly, don't leave water in the humidifier when turned off, and refill it only when you plan to operate it.
In the end, when you learn the best way to use products around the house and how to protect yourself or your family against possible hazards, you can be sure those high-tech gadgets are not only making life easier, they're making it better, too.
