Abstract: The invention relates to a safety device, particularly a locking mechanism for safe operation of an electric grill. The preferred embodiment is an electric cooking apparatus comprising a molded plastic base, a removable metal drip pan adapted to rest within the base and be supported by the base, a grill plate for cooking foods placed above the pan, where the grill plate contains bars and slots which, respectively, cook the food placed on the grill plate and allow drippings to pass through the grill plate to be captured on the drip pan without contacting the plastic base, an electric, resistance-type heater preferably disposed beneath the grill plate for heating the grill plate, and sheathed or case within the grill plate, and a combination thermo-probe and temperature detector with thermostat for supplying power to the electric heater, and for engaging a safety lock actuator lever and pin hook which allow the unit to operate.