• Microwaves cook foods quickly so that less vitamins are lost.Microwave image by andrey polichenko from Fotolia.com
  
  Microwave ovens are one of the most convenient appliances that you can have in your home. They use less heat and energy than other appliances to heat up or prepare foods. Dishes can be prepared quickly in microwaves, thus reducing the thawing and cooking times. This means that your food has less chance of spoiling or being left out of the refrigerator for an unsafe length of time. Safety issues with microwave ovens are few, but it is wise to be knowledgeable about situations that may cause problems.
  
  

Radiation Leaks

• Radiation leaking from a microwave is extremely rare, and even if this occurs, the amount is unlikely to be a danger. To avoid any possible leakage, never use a microwave oven when the door or seals are damaged. If the locking device is not closing properly or if you are unsure if your microwave is safe, take it to a store that specializes in repairing microwave ovens to check it for radiation leaks. Dropping your microwave can damage it and make it unsafe. Keep your microwave clean and free of spills or burnt food. Never turn your microwave on when it is empty. Never use metal object in a microwave, this can cause high voltage arcing and sparks that can damage the appliance, according to the Health Physics Society website. Even dinnerware trimmed in gold or silver metals can result in this arcing.
  
  

Uneven Heating of Foods

• Microwave cooking can leave cold spots in your dishes. Whenever you thaw food in your microwave, check the center to make sure that it is not still frozen. Cold spots in dishes can increase the growth of bacteria and microorganisms, according to the Better Health Channel website. To prevent cold spots, always stir your food once or twice while it is cooking. Cut food items into similar-sized chunks. Smaller portions heat more evenly than one large piece. If a dish cannot be cut in small pieces or stirred, such as a quiche, heat it up according to the directions and then allow it to sit for a few moments so that the heat can penetrate throughout the dish. Use microwave safe lids or plastic wrap to cover the food to ensure even heating. Use round or shallow microwave-safe dishes whenever possible; these tend to heat more evenly than square or tall dishes. Avoid preparing dishes that are risky, such as stuffing cooked inside a chicken or turkey.
  
  

Burns or Scalding

• If you are unsure as to whether a dish is microwave safe, be sure to wear oven mitts or use a potholder when removing it. Some dishes can become extremely hot and burn you when you touch them. Use only plastic wrap that is microwave safe and avoid sealing all the edges of the dish. It is best to drape the plastic wrap loosely over the dish so that excess steam can escape. When removing plastic wrap or a lid, open it on the side facing away from you. If there is an excess of steam, it should be able to escape without burning your face. Never heat baby bottles in a microwave, the liquid can get hot rapidly and burn your baby's mouth, even though the bottle does not seem that hot. Use caution when cooking something that has two distinct layers, such as a jelly-filled doughnut or meat-filled pastry. The outer layer may feel comfortable to the touch, but the inner layer may be boiling hot and scald your mouth or hands. Cut the pastry or doughnut in half to check for excess steam before attempting to eat it. Never cook an egg in the microwave; when it is still in its shell, the heat could cause it to explode and make a huge mess in your oven. Always check the cooking directions on the food you are preparing, set the timer for the correct amount of time and be sure to check the temperature of the food before serving it.