Ninety cherubs poured out of Jones Hall around 10:30 p.m. on a Sunday night, fire alarms blaring in the background. The culprit: burnt Pop-Tarts in the microwave. Firefighters arrived in minutes and gave the all clear.
“Ever since then, I haven’t used the microwave,” said Lylah Patel of New York who heated the Pop-Tarts.
Even after the incident, cherubs frequented the microwaves to reheat meals or pop popcorn. For the safety of dormitory residents, cherubs must follow safety instructions.
Step one: Put the food on a plate.
Placing food directly in the microwave can cause it to stick, splatter or heat unevenly. Use microwave-safe containers, not tinfoil.
“I would say have someone on your floor go to Target and buy glass plates,” Patel said. “Just keep them in the kitchen and use them communally.”
Step two: Heat food in small time increments.
“Microwave it for 30 seconds, and then take a break and microwave it again for another 30,” Bani Chatha of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, said. “Don’t do it all at once.”
Step three: Keep an eye and ear on the microwave.
Sizzling is normal, but stop the microwave if the sounds become too intense. Watch out for smoke. Like the Pop-Tarts, it can set off the fire alarm.
Sissi Ma of Beijing and Milton, Massachusetts said she uses the microwave for bread.
“Stare at it at all times,” Ma said. “It’s powerful.”
Step four: Open the door and be careful of the heat.
Cherubs should make sure the food is cool enough to avoid burns.
Step five: Remove the food and enjoy!
