Navigating Kitchen Fires

House fires caused by cooking are one of the leading causes of home fires and injuries. Even small kitchen fires can cause significant damage if not dealt with quickly and appropriately.

This post will discuss how to deal with cooking fires effectively.

Assess the Situation

The first step when encountering a cooking fire is to assess the situation. Determine the size and location of the fire and identify any potential hazards, such as flammable materials nearby. If the fire is small and contained, you may be able to put it out on your own. However, if the fire is large or spreading quickly, do not attempt to extinguish it yourself and instead call 911 immediately.

Smother the Fire

If the fire is small and contained, you can attempt to smother it with a metal lid or cookie sheet. Use oven mitts to protect your hands, and slowly place the lid over the pan in a sweeping motion. This will cut off the oxygen supply and extinguish the flames.

Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is also an effective way to put out a small cooking fire. Sprinkle a generous amount over the flames to smother and extinguish them. Do not use flour, as it can be explosive when in contact with high heat.

Turn off the Heat

In addition to smothering the fire, make sure to turn off the source of heat. This includes turning off the stove or oven and unplugging any electrical appliances. This will prevent the fire from reigniting once it has been put out.

Do Not Use Water

It may be tempting to use water to put out a cooking fire, but this can actually make the situation worse. Water can cause grease fires to spread and lead to serious burns. It is important to never use water on a cooking fire and instead opt for smothering methods.

Use a Fire Extinguisher

If you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, it can be used to put out small cooking fires. Make sure the extinguisher is meant for the right type of fire for your situation. Always read the instructions on the extinguisher before using it.

Call for Help

If the fire is too large to handle on your own or if you are not confident in your ability to put it out, call 911 immediately. It is always better to err on the side of caution and let trained professionals handle the situation.

Stay Calm and Get Out

In any fire emergency, staying calm and thinking clearly is important. If the fire is spreading quickly or uncontrollable, evacuate the area immediately and call for help. Do not try to gather belongings or valuables, as your safety is the top priority.

Contact a company that offers fire extinguishers for sale to learn more.