How to Safely Put Out a Grease Fire: A Step-by-Step Guide
Picture this: You’re cooking dinner, and your phone buzzes with a text. You turn away for just a moment, only to turn back and find your frying pan engulfed in flames. Grease fires are one of the most common and dangerous types of home fires. They spread quickly and can cause significant damage if not handled properly. At Wolverine Restoration, we’ve seen the aftermath of too many kitchen fires, and we’re here to help you prevent and manage them. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
What NOT to Do During a Grease Fire
When faced with a grease fire, your first instinct might be to grab water or a wet towel. But that’s the worst thing you can do. Here’s why:
Never Use Water: Water and oil don’t mix. Pouring water on a grease fire will cause the flames to splatter and spread.
Avoid Wet Towels: A wet towel might seem like a good idea, but it can actually fuel the fire by providing more material to burn.
Don’t Move the Pan: Trying to carry a flaming pan to the sink or outside can lead to spills, spreading the fire and potentially causing burns.
Check Your Fire Extinguisher: Not all fire extinguishers are created equal. Using a water-based extinguisher on a grease fire can make the situation worse.
What To Do to Safely Extinguish a Grease Fire
If you find yourself facing a grease fire, stay calm and follow these steps:
Call 911: Even if you think you can handle the fire, getting professional help on the way is crucial.
Cover the Pan: Place a metal lid over the pan to smother the flames. Avoid glass lids, as they can shatter from the heat.
Use Baking Soda or Salt: These household items can help smother the fire. Dump them generously onto the flames—don’t worry about the mess; it’s better than a house fire.
Turn Off the Heat: If you have a gas or electric stove, immediately cut off the heat source.
Use a Class B Fire Extinguisher: If you have one, aim it at the base of the fire. For future safety, consider investing in an ABC-rated extinguisher, which works on all types of fires.
Why Grease Fires Are So Dangerous
Grease fires are the leading cause of home fires in the United States, resulting in nearly $900 million in damages annually. They ignite quickly, spread rapidly, and can become uncontrollable in seconds. The thick black smoke they produce is toxic and can cause substantial damage to your home and belongings. That’s why knowing how to handle a grease fire and having the right tools on hand is so important.
After the Fire: Why You Need Wolverine Restoration
Even after the flames are out, the damage isn’t over. Smoke and soot are highly acidic and can continue to harm your home and possessions if not properly cleaned. That’s where Wolverine Restoration comes in. Our team of fire damage experts is available 24/7 to:
Remove smoke and soot residue.
Eliminate lingering odors.
Restore your home to its pre-fire condition.
We understand how overwhelming a fire can be, and we’re here to make the recovery process as smooth as possible.
Prevention Tips: Avoiding Grease Fires in the Future
Never Leave Cooking Unattended: Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food.
Keep Flammable Items Away: Move dish towels, paper towels, and other combustible materials away from the stove.
Monitor Heat Levels: Avoid overheating oil or grease. If you see smoke, turn off the heat immediately.
Be Prepared: Keep a metal lid, baking soda, and a Class B fire extinguisher within easy reach.
Call Wolverine Restoration – Your Partner in Fire Recovery
If you’ve experienced a grease fire, don’t wait—call Wolverine Restoration. Our fire damage restoration experts are ready to help you recover quickly and safely. From smoke removal to odor elimination, we’ll restore your home and your peace of mind.