Knife Skills
What direction should your fingers curl when holding food for cutting?
Inward like a claw
What should you never use to extinguish an oil fire?
Water
How long should you wash your hands for?
20 seconds (or sing Happy Birthday twice)
Why should pot handles be turned inward on the stove?
To prevent accidental knocking and spills
What should you check before turning on any electrical equipment?
That the cord isn't damaged and your hands are dry
What is the safest way to pass a knife to another person?
Handle first, laying it on the bench
What color is the fire blanket in our kitchen and where is it located?
Red, located next to the fire extinguisher by the door
What temperature should a refrigerator be set at?
Below 5°C (41°F)
What should you do immediately if you spot a spill on the floor?
Clean it up right away to prevent slips
Why should you never put metal in a microwave?
It can cause sparks and fire
Why should you never try to catch a falling knife?
It could cause serious injury - let it fall and step back
Name three signs that cooking oil is too hot and might catch fire.
Smoking, dark color, strong smell
What does the term 'cross-contamination' mean?
Transfer of bacteria from one food to another
Why should you never wear loose sleeves while cooking?
They could catch fire or get caught in equipment
What's the proper way to carry hot pots or pans?
Use oven mitts, keep close to body, announce "hot behind" when walking
What's the proper technique for carrying a knife in the kitchen?
At your side, point down, sharp edge facing behind you
Why should you never leave oil heating unattended?
Oil can reach its flash point (ignition temperature) very quickly and catch fire without warning
What is the 'danger zone' temperature range for food?
Between 5°C and 60°C (41°F-140°F)
What is the first step if you burn yourself in the kitchen?
Run cool water over the burn for at least 10 minutes
What safety features should you check on a gas stove before using?
Gas smell, pilot light working, burners clean, knobs working properly
What is the difference between a serrated knife and a straight-edge knife, and when should each be used?
Serrated knives have saw-like teeth best for cutting soft items with firm exteriors (bread, tomatoes); straight-edge knives are for clean cuts through meat, vegetables, and precise chopping
What are the two safety features we have in the Food Technology room to put out fires?
Fire extinguisher and fire blanket
What are three symptoms of food poisoning and when should you seek medical attention?
Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, fever. Seek medical attention if symptoms last more than 24 hours or if severely dehydrated
Name three common allergens found in kitchen ingredients.
Nuts, eggs, dairy, wheat, shellfish, soy, fish, sesame
What color is the light that shows when an oven is turned on?
Red or orange