Refrigerator
The refrigerator is an appliance that we take for granted. We’re so used to its presence that it’s easy to forget about regular maintenance and safety inspections, but these actions are crucial for keeping you and your family safe.
Common Refrigerator Safety Hazards
Fire
Foodborne illness
Tipping
What to Look For in Your Fridge
Keep an eye out for dust and lint, which often gather behind and under refrigerators. This buildup can increase the risk of hazards around the electrical components. Exposed wires, which can result from accidentally rolling over the cord, can also present an electrical fire hazard.
The fridge may tip if children hang on refrigerator door handles, which can cause them to become trapped under the fridge. Another danger lurking in the fridge is foodborne pathogens, like E. coli and salmonella, which can survive even in refrigerator temperatures.
How to Maintain Refrigerator Safety
Avoid these common refrigerator safety hazards by regularly cleaning behind and underneath your fridge. Gently remove dust and lint, and be careful of the cord if you move the fridge to clean. Keep the coils of your refrigerator clean to avoid possible compressor failure and minimize fire risk.
Prevent your fridge from falling over by tethering it to the wall with an appliance anchor like the GE Anti-Tip Appliance Bracket. Before installing any anti-tip brackets or straps, make sure they are compatible with the make and model of your refrigerator.
Make cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the fridge part of your routine every time you stock up on groceries. It’s easy to wipe down shelves and drawers with disinfecting wipes like those by Clorox or Lysol. There are also a number of natural cleaners you can use that provide the same protection without causing damage to the environment.