How to prevent and put out cooking fires

Kitchen cooking fires can happen to anyone when they don’t follow a few simple rules, but if a fire does occur, there are also some very effective ways put out the fire to prevent a potential catastrophe. When cooking, stay in the kitchen. Unattended cooking is the number one cause of cooking fires. Wear short or close-fitting sleeves. Loose clothing can catch fire. Closely watch children. When old enough, teach them to cook safely, Keep cooking surfaces clean to avoid food and grease build-up. Keep potholders, towels, and curtains away from hot surfaces. Turn pan handles in to prevent food spills. Store solvents and flammable cleaners away from heat sources. Never store gasoline or other industrial flammables in the house.

To Put Out Fires

Call the fire department immediately. In many cases, dialing 911 gives you emergency services. To smother a grease or oil fire in a pan, slide a lid over the flames, turn off the heat, and leave the lid in place until pan cools. Never carry the pan outside. Put out other food fires with baking soda. Never use flour or water. To smother oven or broiler fires, keep the oven door shut and turn off the heat. Use a fire extinguisher. Keep one in the kitchen, make sure it’s the right type, and know how to use it. Be sure to recharge the extinguisher as noted on the unit.