It doesn't take a genius to learn how to use a pressure cooker safely. If you buy one like the Presto 6 Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker, it comes with several safety features built-in, making it easier and safer to use.

Just to help you remember how to use a pressure cooker safely, however, I offer . . .

1. Thou shalt read thy manual. This is especially important if you've never used a pressure cooker before. The best safety feature is an informed Presto Pressure Cooker Operator.
2. Thou shalt check the cooker's safety equipment before use. Hold the cover up and look through the vent to see if it's clear. Make sure the air vent/cover lock moves freely.
3. Thou shalt not cook those foods that clog up the safety vent with froth and foam, such as cranberries, cereals and beans. The manual that comes with the Presto Pressure Cooker will have a list of what foods work well in the cooker, and which should be avoided.
4. Thou shalt not overfill the cooker. Most of the time, fill it 2/3rds the way full. For foods that expand a lot, such as grains, it should only be filled 1/2 the way. For a more extensive list on the right amounts of foods to put in a Presto Pressure Cooker, consult the manual.
5. Thou shalt make sure the pressure cooker is properly closed before beginning to cook.
6. Thou shalt not use the Presto Pressure cooker in an oven, on an outdoor LP gas burner, or on a gas range over 12,000 BTU's.
7. Thou shalt not attempt to open the cooker until the inside pressure is completely reduced - no steam coming out of the vent and the handle is easy to open.
8. Thou shalt keep thy pressure cooker well maintained, replacing the gasket and overpressure plug every two years, or any time such becomes worn, cracked, hard or deformed.
9. Thou shalt not allow children to use the pressure cooker.
10. Thou shalt now touch hot surfaces, attempt to pressure cook oil, or otherwise do anything stupid prefaced by a "Hey, watch this!"

This wonderful cookware is a great addition to your kitchen, so don't let any safety concerns keep you from buying one.  With the built in safety features on a Presto Pressure Cooker and a little common sense, there shouldn't be any problems with using a Presto Pressure Cooker safely.