It's fire prevention week. So, it's time to be acutely aware of
various fire dangers in and around your home. One that often is
overlooked (until it's too late) is the proper firing-up of your kitchen
gas range. Burners are lighted in one or two ways -- either by tiny
continuously burning "pilot lights" or by the newer electric igniters
that create a spark to get things going. When neither type works as it
should, accumulated grease and small food particles are the usual
suspects. Pilot lights can be rejuvenated by first removing any visible
obstructions, and then clearing with a straight pin. Be careful not to
damage or enlarge the hole. With all burner controls off, relight with a
match. For electric igniters, after checking the power, clean the
electrodes with a soft cloth, then test. Today's also the day Mrs.
Oleary's cow kicked over a lantern, and started the great Chicago fire
of 1871. It burned 18,000 buildings and left 100,000 homeless. Fire
prevention -- it's a must. And that's the On The House tip for today.