How to Extinguish a Grease Fire

Pan Fire

The holidays are all about seeing family and eating tons of good food. But unfortunately all that time spent in the kitchen means it's also a popular time for kitchen fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Thanksgiving is the peak time for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.

While cooking, the pan suddenly erupting in flames shooting up from the stove would catch anyone off guard. And that's why it doesn't hurt to refresh your safety plan in the advent of a possible accident. Especially because grease fires require different protocol than fires caused by trash, wood, paper, or electrical equipment.

The most important thing to remember: Never, ever use water to put out a grease fire, as it can make the problem worse. Adding water to a hot pan of oil has a volatile effect that can cause fire to escape from the pan.

instead, keep a lid near the stove when you're cooking so you can smother a small fire before it grows. Turn the burner off and leave the pan covered until it's completely cooled. You can also use a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen use(Class B). Stand back approximately 5 to 6 feet from the fire and follow the P-A-S-S method.

For an oven fire, keep the door closed and turn off the heat.

Of course, always call 9-1-1 and exit the house immediately if you have any doubt about extinguishing the flames yourself. Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires, causing 48% of home fires that resulted in 21% of the home fire deaths and 45% of the injuries, according to the NFPA.

Cooking Safety Tips

Before you start cooking this Christmas, follow these safety tips to protect your loved ones and yourself: