Memorial Art Gallery Fire Safety
Fire Marshal's Office
Safety Alerts
Microwaving Water
Please note ~ water alone should never be heated in a microwave oven. If it is necessary to heat water in this manner, something should be place in the cup to diffuse the energy [that can build up] such as a wooden stir stick, tea bag, etc. GE states that water and other liquids do not always bubble when they reach the boiling point. They can actually get superheated and not bubble at all. The superheated liquid will bubble up out of the cup when it is moved or when something like a spoon or tea bag is put into it. To prevent this from happening and causing injury, do not heat any liquid for more than two minutes per cup. After heating, let the cup stand in the microwave for 30 seconds before moving it or adding anything to it.
If you ever have a fire in a microwave oven, you should follow the University's fire alarm procedures.
R - Rescue and relocate anyone in immediate danger.
A - Alert others by activating the building fire alarm and calling ext. 13 from a safe location.
C - Confine the emergency by closing the doors
E - Evacuate immediately. Do not use elevators. Use stairs.
If in smoke or heat crawl, keep low to avoid deadly smoke, heat and fumes. If there is smoke in corridor, stay in room, close and seal doors, dial 13 for help, stand by window.
QUESTIONS? Contact the EH&S Fire Marshal's Office at (585) 275-3243 or e-mail EH&S Questions.
This page last updated 6/27/2005. Disclaimer.
