YOUR PLACE NO MORE HOT HANDS.

Byline: - Jaime Spangrude

Practicing safety always comes first when working in the kitchen. Get a handle on the latest innovations to help make your kitchen an injury-free zone:

1. Minnow Hot Handle: This fish-shaped handle holder slides right onto the handle of your pot to keep you from burning your hand. Made of 100 percent cotton and 100 percent flame-retardant foam filling, it's also hand-washable and a bargain at $3.95. Available at Sur La Table locations: the Promenade at Westlake in Thousand Oaks, [phone]; in Pasadena, [phone]; at the Farmers Market in Los Angeles, [phone].

2. Duncan's Kitchen Grips: This two-piece chef's set contains a cushioned oven mitt - suitable for righties and lefties - and a table-top trivet. It is heat- and stain-resistant, water-repellent and has a safe grip. Comes in Charcoal Black, Spicy Red, Royal Blue and Hunter Green. Available for purchase at Sur La Table for $19.95, or go to www.kitchengrips.com.

3. Orka Silicone Oven Mitt: Nonabsorbent and nonporous, the Orka mitt offers heavy-duty protection against heat and stains and protects your hands while working with grills, charcoal, fat and oil. The ribbed design allows for a firm grip and fits on both hands. It's also waterproof - even in boiling water, and dishwasher and washing-machine safe. Comes in an assortment of colors. Available for purchase at Sur La Table for $19.95.

4. Lamsonsharp Leather BBQ Mitt: This 17-inch barbecue mitt protects the arm as well as the hand while over the grill. It's flexible, easy to use and machine-washable. It can also be used for the oven. Comes in black and natural brown. Available for purchase at Sur La Table for $20.95, or go to www.lamsonsharp.com.

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(1) no caption (Minnow Hot Handle)

(2) no caption (Duncan's Kitchen Grips)

(3) no caption (Orka Silicone Oven Mitt)

(4) no caption (Lamsonsharp Leather BBQ Mitt)