Re crockpot safety

I'm really not sure re your questions -- but I will give my thoughts.

Is it a name brand, like a Rival? If so, perhaps you can contact the company and they can give you some info.

Re a cover, I would look for a tight fitting one - as the crockpots I have used have all been reasonably tight. One of the guidelines most of the instruction books have is that you should not open the lid to peek, etc. .... and only stir when necessary. Something to the effect that every time you take off the lid you lose 15 minutes cooking time.

My crockpot has high and low. I have no idea re the temp.

Since you are unsure about yours, I would use it the first time at least, while home. Several people have told me that they put their crock pot on top of their range and then plug it in ... they feel that if something happens they would be less likely to have a fire that way. I'm only passing this on. Does yours have a removable liner? I like those better - very unsure of the others.

Try it for a simple stew or chicken dish - when you're home .... that will make you more at ease with it. There are many recipes in the 'crockpot' section here under the message board lists. Good luck.