Safety Systems on the Modern Pressure Cooker - Part 2 Part 1 Using a new, modern pressure cooker couldn't be easier. When the air has escaped, the cooker seals automatically at the right temperature setting. As the heat in the cooker increases, pressure is formed, and the indicator rod rises. All you have to do now is to turn down the heat and start timing your recipe at the cooking temperature you have selected. The majority of pressure cooker accidents are caused by 'operator error'. Read and follow directions in your owners manual. I can't stress enough that you should always read the manual that came with your pressure cooker before you cook anything in it. If you are a novice at cooking, especially pressure cooking, be sure you understand the new terms you see. Read and follow the instructions. Interlocking Lid and Safety Locks For example, the first line of defense is the interlocking lid that makes it impossible to open the lid while the pressure cooker still has pressure. metal flanges opened parents shown below) on the lid and the rim of the base pot, keep the lid in place so it cannot be removed under pressure. Safety Lid Lock An option on some brands is an additional safety "lid lock". This extra reminder requires users to push the lock closed to besure the lid is securely locked. The Safety Lid Lock is added for another layer of protection because the pressure cooker cannot be pressurized until the lid is properly locked, and it cannot be unlocked until the pressure is released. Pop up Pressure Indicator Pop up Pressure Indicator is a device on modernpressure cookers that show exactly when the selected pressure setting has been reached. This visual indicator eliminates all the guesswork and serves several functions by showing: when the correct pressure is achieved. when to adjust to heat lower. that the cooker is pressurized that the cooker is depressurized. when its safe to open the lid. Heavy 3 Ply Base The heavy, encapsulated, three ply base allows modern pressure cookers to heat evenly without developing hotspots which can burn your food. As a safety feature, this allows cooks to use a much lower heat source to maintain even pressure, which in turn removes the chance of over-heating or over-pressuring. The 3 ply base also helps to avoid constantly fiddling with the stove to adjusting heat needed to maintain the pressure setting. This really means that as soon as the cooker is pressurized, the heat can be lowered and there is nothing more to do unril the cooking time is finished. This heavy base also adds considerable weight to a large, fully loaded pressure cooker which may be a problem for some people who have physical disabilities and have difficulty lifting or carrying heavy items. Gasket Release Slot In the worse case scenario -- such as extreme over heating or over pressuring -- the gasket will be pushed out from an open slot in the rim of the lid allowing built-up steam to escape safely. This emergency venting is directed in a downward direction. In the rare event that the temperature rises beyond the normal operating level and the cooker is over-pressured, this safety feature will kick in. Two things will cause this safety system to operate, both are attributable to user error and therfore easily preventable: The normal escape of steam be prevented, such as might occur if the valve (or the vent pipe in the case of the old style models) be blocked If there is insufficient water in the pressure cooker or if it boils dry. Check The Warranty The length of the manufacturers warranty is a good indication of the expected useful life of any product and provides certain performance and quality safeguards expected with any good piece or cookware .Experienced pressure cooker users will enjoy the added benefits, and novices will find them much easier to use. A quality pressure cooker should last 25 years. Look for at least a ten year warranty to protect your investment. read carefully, some manufacturers place limits or restrictions on what they cover. Part 1