Microwave Safety Tips

Always get permission before you cook and make sure an adult is nearby in case you need help or have a problem.

Have an adult teach you how to program the time and turn the microwave off and on.

Never operate an empty microwave. If you want to practice using it, place a cup of water inside to absorb the microwave energy.

Keep the inside of the microwave clean. Wipe up spills as they occur.

Never operate the microwave if it is damaged in any way. This includes a bent door, broken or loosened hinges and latches, broken door seals, or broken inside surfaces.

Metal cookware and metal utensils are not recommended for microwave use. Do not use aluminum foil or dishes and utensils with a metal trim.

If a dish is covered with plastic wrap, use a sharp knife to make a couple of slits in the top, before lifting the side farthest away from you.

If a recipe requires several minutes of cooking, the food can get very hot, which does make the container hot enough to cause a burn. Always be careful when removing food from the microwave, and use potholders, if necessary.

Be careful when removing the covering from a dish that has been microwaved for several minutes. Let it stand for a few minutes, then carefully lift the side farthest away from you. This keeps the steam from gushing into your face.

Eggs cannot be cooked in the shell. They will explode.

Do not heat oil or fat for deep fat frying.

Potatoes, tomatoes, egg yolks, and other foods with a skin or membrane must be pierced before they are microwaved. This allows the steam to escape and keeps them from exploding.

Popcorn should be cooked only in special microwave poppers carefully following manufacturer's recommendations. Do not pop popcorn in paper bags or glass utencils.