Safe and Affordable . That said using this pressure cooker without reading the included information will generally produce unfortunate results. Meaning, too much or too little water, too long of a cooking time, or too high of heat for too long of a time will discourage most first time users. Most people remember the cautions of their parents or grand parents that these things can blow up...not likely! If you do a little homework you'll be able to produce many a fine dish...Find yourself a blog, or talk to anyone you know who uses one, do an internet search on pressure cookers and jump in...