How not to cook up trouble in the kitchen
Preparing a meal for young grandchildren is a great bonding experience, but they can get in the way while you're cutting, chopping or handling pots with boiling liquids. Credit: Ken Spencer
Most falls in the home occur in the bathroom, but many potential mishaps also lurk in the kitchen, especially for seniors. Health insurer Humana offers these tips to stay safe while preparing and cooking meals.
Avoid distractions. Preparing a meal for young grandchildren is a great bonding experience, but they can get in the way while you're cutting, chopping or handling pots with boiling liquids. Find the youngsters something to do until dinner is served.
Dress appropriately. In the old "Leave It to Beaver" TV show, June Cleaver may have cooked in heels and full-skirted dresses with ruffles, but you shouldn't. Wear comfortable shoes that don't slip and well-fitting clothes or an apron that won't get snagged or get dangerously near a flame.
Keep knives sharp. You need more pressure to cut with a dull knife, raising the chances it could slip and cut you.
