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Winter Gas Stove Safety: Stay Alert and Prevent Accidents

As the temperature drops, many people find themselves bundled up in thicker clothing, which increases the risk of gas stove accidents. On average, approximately 152 incidents related to gas stoves are reported annually, with a significant portion caused by improper usage and inattention. Given the dangers of clothing igniting or pets accidentally turning on the gas, it’s essential to be vigilant this winter. Here are practical tips from the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE) to help keep your home safe.

Understanding the Risks

From 2020 to 2024, NITE received numerous reports of gas stove-related incidents. An alarming 50% of these reports were due to careless use, with common issues including forgetting to turn off the flame, allowing pets to accidentally ignite the stove, and neglecting to clean the appliance and grill. Additionally, it's reported that around 100 people lose their lives each year from clothing catching fire. More incidents occur when cooking than in any other setting, evidencing this as a critical safety concern.

Key Safety Points for Using Gas Stoves

1. Keep Clothing Away from Flames

When cooking, always maintain a safe distance between your clothes and any flames. The flames can extend beyond what is visible, making it easy to inadvertently ignite your clothing, especially in winter when one tends to wear heavier garments. This is particularly concerning for the elderly, who may have impaired vision and are less likely to notice flames. Always be mindful of your clothing and avoid leaning over the stove.

2. Verify Flame Status Before Leaving

Many incidents occur when the flame is inadvertently left on while the user steps away from the stove. Always double-check that the flame is off before leaving the kitchen, even for a moment. This applies not just to gas stoves but also to grills. It’s important to ensure that all burners are extinguished following use.

3. Keep Stoves Clean

Neglected cleaning can lead to dangerous consequences. Spills from cooking can enable gas pipes to corrode or block burners. After cooking, ensure you promptly clean any splatters or spills to prevent buildup, and always refer to your user manual for cleaning guidelines.

4. Protect Pets from Ignition Risks

Having a pet increases the risk of accidents, especially if they can reach the stove controls. When leaving home, ensure to turn off the main gas supply and lock the control buttons, if possible, to prevent any accidental ignition caused by curious pets. Make sure to keep flammable items away from the stove area.

Additional Safety Precautions

• - Add safety measures such as removing long scarves and clothing that can easily catch fire.
• - Consider wearing non-flammable apparel when cooking, and use aprons to keep your outfit secured.
• - Ensure that any equipment used for grilling complies with your manual, especially regarding fire safety.
• - Be cautious about what you place near the stove; avoid leaving flammable materials nearby.
• - Install safety features in cooking equipment to minimize risks associated with improper use. Look for products bearing the “+安心”(Plus Safe) logo, which indicates enhanced safety features.

Explore Previous Incidents

To stay informed about the safety of products and recent incidents, consider using the NITE SAFE-Lite tool, which provides access to accident data related to household products. Awareness and preparation can go a long way in preventing unfortunate accidents this winter.

By understanding common risks and implementing these safety tips, you can create a safer cooking environment. Remember, a little caution can prevent a dangerous situation from unfolding. Let's ensure that this winter remains safe for everyone in our homes, including our furry friends!