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Kitchen safety in a cute package

One of the most important kitchen "gadgets" is one that far too many people overlook completely. And no, we're not talking about a cappuccino maker.

Abbi Perets
Abbi Perets has been writing about technology and family and consumer issues for over ten years. Her work has been featured in print and on the Web, and she has taught courses on consumer and business electronics for HP, Sony, AOL, and other companies. Abbi has also written extensively about business technology for Tech Republic, Gantthead, and other tech sites. Abbi's passion for home appliances stems from the kitchen remodel she managed in her new home in Houston, TX where she lives with her husband and four children.
Abbi Perets

It looks good AND saves lives. Assistive Stuff

It's easy to get caught up in fun kitchen gadgets and overlook the things that are most important--like kitchen safety. Do you own a fire extinguisher? Do you know where it is and how to use it? A fire extinguisher can be somewhat unwieldy, and many kitchen extinguishers are only good for a single use. You should still have one in your kitchen, but a backup plan isn't a bad idea.

That's where the Kitchen Fire Mat comes in. The mats are made from amorphous silica cloths and felts, which are absolutely fire proof, impervious to direct flame contact and cannot melt until temperatures exceed 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The blanket smothers the flame without smoke emission or toxic gases, and you can reuse it several times if you're dealing with minor flames.

The blanket is 36 inches by 36 inches and has handles at one end. Plus, it comes packaged in a cute red ceramic fire-hydrant-shaped canister that you can keep on your counter so it's there--accessible--when you need it.

The mat costs about $50. But your peace of mind? Priceless.