A small kitchen fire can turn into a serious emergency in just a few seconds. That is why knowing what not to do can be just as important as knowing what to do.
Look at the three choices in the picture. One person tries to cover the fire, another pours water on it, and the third reaches for a fire extinguisher. Which move would you choose?
Before you answer, there is one important thing to know: the safest response depends on what is burning. A grease fire, an electrical fire, and a gas fire should not be treated in exactly the same way.
Never pour water on a grease fire
If a pan of oil or grease catches fire, water is one of the worst things you can add.
When water hits extremely hot oil, it can quickly turn into steam and spread burning oil in every direction. Instead of putting out the flames, it can cause the fire to suddenly flare up and spread across the kitchen.
So, if a pan of grease catches fire, do not use water.
If it is safe to do so, turn off the burner. For a small fire in a pan, carefully placing a metal lid over the pan can help cut off the oxygen and smother the flames. Never move a burning pan, and keep your face and hands away from the flames.
What about a towel?
Using a towel can look like a simple way to cover a fire, but it can be dangerous.
A dry towel can catch fire, and getting too close to the flames puts you at risk of burns. A towel is not a reliable substitute for a proper fire-safety method.
The goal is to keep yourself out of danger, not to get closer to the fire.
When should you use a fire extinguisher?
A fire extinguisher can be useful for a small, contained fire when you have the correct type of extinguisher, know how to use it, and have a clear way to escape.
For a kitchen grease fire, a Class K extinguisher is specifically designed for cooking-oil and grease fires. Some household extinguishers are rated for multiple types of fires, so it is important to check the label before an emergency happens.
If you use an extinguisher, remember the basic PASS method:
Pull the pin.
Aim at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the handle.
Sweep from side to side.
But an extinguisher is not a reason to stay and fight a growing fire. If the flames are spreading, producing heavy smoke, or blocking your escape route, get out immediately.
Gas fires are a different situation
The picture also shows flames coming from gas cylinders, and this is where extra caution is needed.
If a gas cylinder or gas line is leaking and burning, simply putting out the flame may not solve the problem. The gas could continue escaping and create an explosion hazard.
If you can safely shut off the gas supply without approaching the flames or putting yourself in danger, that may stop the source. Otherwise, move away, get everyone outside, and call the fire department or emergency services.
Never take unnecessary risks just to save a stove, cylinder, or other property.
The safest move is sometimes to walk away
This is the most important lesson of the quiz: you do not have to fight a fire yourself.
If a fire is larger than a small, manageable flame, or you are unsure what is burning, leave immediately. Close the door behind you if possible, warn others, and call for professional help from a safe location.
A few seconds of hesitation can make a huge difference.
So, if you picked #2 and the water bucket, think again—water can make a grease fire dramatically worse. If you picked #1, remember that a towel is not a dependable fire-control method. #3 is generally the most appropriate of these three choices for a small fire when the extinguisher is suitable for that type of fire and it is safe to use.
And when there is any doubt, the safest choice is simple: get out, stay out, and call for help.
