Tips for a stress-free and safe experience

Whether you’re whipping up a quick pasta dish or experimenting with new recipes, it’s important to stay safe and considerate of others. Here’s how to cook safely in halls and avoid any accidents or mishaps.

1. Know your kitchen rules

First things first, get familiar with your kitchen’s rules and equipment. Every hall at Bath has guidelines for using communal kitchens, and it’s worth taking a moment to read through them. This will include things like cleaning expectations, what appliances are available, and what to do if something goes wrong.

Most importantly, remember that you’ll be sharing this space with others, so keeping it clean and organised is essential. If everyone does their part, it’ll be a much easier and more enjoyable place to cook.

2. Be fire-safe

Accidents can happen, but taking a few precautions will go a long way in preventing them:

• Stay in the kitchen while cooking, especially if you’re using high-heat appliances like a hob or grill. Never leave food cooking unattended.
• Know the fire exits and always keep them clear. You should also familiarise yourself with the location of fire extinguishers and alarms.
• Use the right appliances for the job. For example, don’t use the microwave for something that needs stovetop heat, and always keep food away from open flames.
• Turn off the cooker when you're done. It's an easy one to forget, but it's crucial to always double-check before leaving the kitchen.

3. Keep it clean

After you’ve cooked your meal, it’s time to clean up. Not only does this help keep the kitchen tidy, but it also prevents food from attracting pests or creating unpleasant smells.

• Wash your dishes straight after use (or at least rinse them). Leave no trace behind!
• Clean the worktops before and after use. This prevents bacteria from spreading, especially if you’ve been handling raw meat.
• Take out the rubbish regularly and don’t leave leftover food in the kitchen overnight. If your hall has recycling bins, make sure to use them properly – the last thing anyone wants is an overflowing bin!

4. Be mindful of shared spaces

Halls kitchens are shared spaces, so it’s important to be respectful of your flatmates:

• Label your food – this way, you won’t accidentally grab someone else’s snacks (or have yours “borrowed”).
• Be aware of noise levels. If you're cooking late at night, keep the noise down to avoid disturbing others.
• Share the space – clean up after yourself and let others have a turn. If you're using the hob or oven, be considerate of how long you're occupying it.

5. Use appliances & utensils properly

Most kitchens are equipped with basic appliances, but it's important to know how to use them safely:

• Microwave: Always use microwave-safe containers. Never put metal in the microwave, and be cautious with plastic (some types can melt).
• Oven and hob: Make sure you know how to use them safely. Don’t overload the oven, and always use oven mitts/gloves when handling hot trays or pans.
• Toaster: If your kitchen has a toaster, don’t leave it unattended while in use. And make sure it’s clean from crumbs to avoid fire risks.
• Knives: Knives are essential in the kitchen, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Always use a chopping board when cutting, and never cut directly on the work surface. Make sure to store knives safely in a drawer or a designated knife block, not loose in a drawer where they could cause injury. Always cut away from your body, and if you’re passing a knife to someone, make sure the handle is facing them, not the blade.

6. Stay calm if something goes wrong

Despite our best efforts, things can still go wrong (and that's okay). Here’s how to handle common kitchen mishaps:

• Spills and burns: If something spills on the hob, turn off the heat and clean it up as soon as possible to prevent burns or potential fire hazards.
• Fires: If something catches fire, don’t panic. Turn off the heat, and if the fire is small and contained, use a fire blanket (usually found near the kitchen exit) to smother it. If it’s a larger fire, evacuate immediately and call for help.
• Electrical problems: If an appliance is malfunctioning, unplug it immediately and report it to the hall management team for a repair. Don’t attempt to fix electrical issues yourself.

7. Don’t forget about ventilation

Cooking can get a little smoky or steamy, especially when you’re trying to master your favourite recipes. Make sure to keep the kitchen well-ventilated by opening a window or turning on the extractor fan. It’ll help prevent the space from getting too warm and ensure smoke doesn’t trigger the fire alarms.

Cooking in halls doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following these simple safety tips, keeping the kitchen tidy, and being considerate of your flatmates, you can enjoy making meals while staying safe.