Gas Stove Burner Safety
Gas stoves provide an excellent source of heat for cooking but must be used with care. Proper maintenance, keeping them clean and keeping children away from them helps to avoid unnecessary accidents in the home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Cleaning the Stove
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One way to keep a gas stove working its best is to keep it clean with soap and water. Do not use a powdered cleaner as it can obstruct openings on the burner. When you have cleaned the burners, they need to be rinsed off and completely dried before putting them back on.
Propane Stoves
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If the burner on your stove does not have a blue flame, it should be examined by a professional. A burner flame that is colored yellow shows there may be an obstruction in the line.
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Cooking
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While cooking, the flame should be kept at a level lower than the pan bottom. If the flame is made higher, it can be hazardous. Also, do not wear loose clothing that can come near the flame and catch on fire while cooking.
Other Considerations
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If you have children, they should know not to play with the burners and what to do if they smell gas. The burners should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions to avoid potential accidents.
Warning
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Turning your burners on and using the stove as a "heater" can be extremely dangerous. Carbon monoxide can build up in the house quickly, putting you and your family at risk. Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to warn you of its formation.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Conan