A small mistake, like turning the gas stove knob in the wrong direction, can lead to serious consequences. Learn the correct way to adjust the flame and avoid the risks that many users overlook.

---

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Using a gas stove may seem like a simple task, but improper handling can lead to hazardous situations. One of the most common mistakes is turning the gas knob in the wrong direction. While this may appear trivial, it can have serious implications for both safety and appliance functionality. Here's why getting it right is crucial, and how to ensure you're using your stove properly.

The Correct Direction for Turning the Gas Knob
Many people are unsure whether they should turn the gas knob clockwise or counterclockwise to reduce the flame. According to experts, the majority of modern gas stoves require you to turn the knob counterclockwise to lower the flame. This simple adjustment is not just about convenience; it directly impacts the safety of your kitchen.

When you turn the knob clockwise, both the inner and outer flames decrease simultaneously. In contrast, when you turn it counterclockwise, the outer flame diminishes first, followed by the inner flame. This process is designed to prevent the gas knob from stopping in an inaccurate position, which could lead to a “half-open, half-closed” state. Such a setting increases the risk of an accidental flame-out or gas leak, potentially leading to a dangerous situation.

4 Gas Stove Hazards to Avoid

While adjusting the gas flame correctly is important, there are additional safety concerns that users should be aware of when using a gas stove.

1. Incomplete Combustion
   One of the key signs of incomplete combustion is a change in the color of the flame. A properly burning gas flame should be blue. If you notice yellow, red, or green flames, this could indicate incomplete combustion, which can lead to harmful carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and potential gas leaks.

If you notice this issue, immediately turn off the stove, inspect the gas outlet and pipes, and consult a professional technician if needed.

2. Using a Lighter to Ignite the Gas
   In cases where the stove won’t light, many users resort to using a lighter to ignite the gas manually. This can be extremely dangerous.

If the stove fails to ignite due to a dead battery, the gas valve often locks itself, making it impossible to light the stove with a lighter. If the issue is with the ignition system, using a lighter could disrupt the synchronization between the gas flow and the spark, increasing the risk of explosion or fire. Additionally, a lighter exposed to high heat could explode, causing burns or further fire hazards.

Why You Shouldn’t Cook Near Flour or Starch
Flour, cornstarch, sugar, and powdered milk are highly flammable when exposed to heat. If these powders are dispersed in the air and come into contact with an open flame, they could cause a dust explosion. The combustion temperature of these powders can reach 2,000-3,000°C, and the resulting blast pressure could reach up to 700 Pa, making it a serious fire risk in the kitchen.

To avoid such risks, never store or use flour or other powdery substances near the gas stove. Additionally, keep the kitchen well-ventilated and ensure any leftover flour or powder is cleaned from the surfaces regularly.

3. Leaving the Stove Unattended While Cooking
   Long cooking processes, like simmering stews or porridge, often lead people to leave the stove unattended. This is a significant safety hazard.

For instance, if the pot boils over and extinguishes the flame, gas could continue to leak, potentially causing a fire. Furthermore, nearby objects might overheat and catch fire if left too long on the stove. Therefore, always supervise the stove when it is in use. If you must leave the kitchen, make sure to turn off the gas completely.

A Quick Recap
While gas stoves are a staple in many homes, they also pose risks when not used correctly. In addition to turning the knob in the correct direction, here are a few important safety practices to follow:

• Check the Flame: Ensure the flame is blue, indicating complete combustion. If it’s yellow or red, investigate the cause immediately.

• Never Use a Lighter for Ignition: Always rely on the built-in ignition system. If it’s malfunctioning, consult a professional.

• Keep Flammable Materials Away from the Stove: Avoid placing flour, starch, or any other combustible materials near the stove.

• Supervise Cooking: Never leave the stove unattended, especially when cooking items that take a long time to prepare.