• Microwave ovens were involved in an estimated average of 2,100 home structure fires per year during 1999-2002, resulting in 10 civilian deaths, 50 civilian injuries and an estimated $6 million per year in associated direct property damage.
• Microwave ovens involve more emergency room injuries than any other cooking device
• Nearly half (48%) of the microwave oven injuries seen at emergency rooms in 2001 were scalds.

• Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using a microwave oven.
• Plug the oven directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord because it may overload the circuit and cause a fire.
• Heat food in containers only intended for microwave use.
• Allow food to cool for a minute or more before removing from the oven using oven gloves.
• Open food slowly. Hot steam escaping from the container can cause painful burns. Let food cool before eating.
• Containers may feel warm. But the contents may be very hot.
• Never use aluminum foil or metal objects in a microwave oven. They can cause an arcing, fire or burn hazard and damage the oven
• If you have a fire in your microwave, turn it off immediately and keep the door closed. Never open the door until the fire is completely out. In doubt, get out and call the fire department

National Fire Protection Association