We know how easy it can be to get distracted in the kitchen on a normal day – especially when there’s a G&T on the benchtop. When you add kids, a busy inbox, and more time to bake, it becomes even harder not to miss things. Read on for our top 5 tips for staying safe at home while self-isolating during COVID-19.

Keep looking when cooking
More than 50 per cent of house fires start in the kitchen, usually from leaving stoves unattended. With a huge uplift in home cooking and baking as people lockdown and prepare for winter, plus the added distractions that come with homeschooling and working from home, the risk is far greater. Before leaving the house or going to sleep, do a once-over of your kitchen to check everything is switched off and that nothing has been left on the stove or in the oven.

Keep your panhandles turned inwards on the stove
While we self-isolate it’s crucial to minimise risks, to avoid any unnecessary trips to the hospital.  So, when cooking, always ensure your panhandles are turned inwards and try to cook on the burner closest to the wall. This advice is often directed towards those with young children – who love to see what’s happening on the stove – but is just as relevant for teenagers, homes with pets, and even adults.

Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
Alarms are proven to be the number one most effective way of protecting you and your home, and saving lives. During the pandemic, Fire and Rescue crews can no longer door knock in the community to conduct in-home smoke alarm inspections and offer free replacement of alarms, so it’s even more important than usual to keep an eye on your alarm yourself. Rather than deactivating your alarm when it starts to make that annoying low-charge beep, put a new batch of batteries in and run a test to make sure it’s working.

Keep an eye on your heaters
As the cooler months approach and jumpers come on, we also increase our use of heaters, electric blankets and fires. Set aside time to check your wires, gas tanks and other electricals and ensure that fires are put out before you go to bed. Replace old electric devices when they look worn, as wires you can’t see may start to fray.

Blow out your candles
As cosy as they are, candles are one of the most common fire hazards – and one that’s almost totally avoidable! Never leave lit candles unattended or in a windy spot, and check there aren’t curtains or other flammable materials nearby.