Hotpot aficionados are reminded to take every possible precaution in the use of the cooking stove and fuel.
In no circumstances should they be negligent in following strictly in accordance with the instructions for the users. Remember: better be careful than sorry.
This timely advice issued by the Consumer Council followed the most recent alcohol stove fire accidents in which three girl guide leaders were seriously wounded suffering from burn injuries.
To assist consumers, the Consumer Council has produced a checklist of safety tips for users of alcohol stoves and LPG cassette cookers commonly in use for hotpot. Highlights of the checklist include:
For alcohol stoves, consumers should never refuel a stove while the appliance is still hot. They should make sure that the alcohol is completely burn out, the flame is off, and the stove cools down.
Fill the stove with alcohol to the desired level (about 80% full) in a well-ventilated area. And never place flammable materials such as newspaper, magazine underneath the stove.
For LPG cassette cookers, consumers should look out for the GU Mark on the gas appliance signifying approval by the Gas Authority of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department. Choose also cookers equipped with flame failure device.
With the gas cartridge, place the cartridge with the cartridge guide in up-right position.
And never overheat the cartridge. For example, do not use two cassette cookers in parallel of each other.
Lastly, make sure that the food is thoroughly cooked in the hotpot before eating, to prevent food poisoning and other diseases.
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