How should grease fires on stoves be addressed?

• A. Pour water onto the grease to cool it
• B. Use a Class K extinguisher or baking soda; do not use water. If oil burns in a pan, cover with a lid
• C. Turn up the flame to burn off the oil
• D. Ignore and continue cooking

Answer: (B)

Grease fires must be tackled by removing the fuel from oxygen, not by cooling with water. Water on hot oil is dangerous because it sinks, boils into steam, and can cause the burning oil to explode and scatter flames. For a small pan fire, smother it by covering the pan with a lid to cut off the oxygen, or sprinkle baking soda to blanket the flames. If you have a fire extinguisher rated for cooking fats, such as a Class K extinguisher, use it according to the label; a home extinguisher rated for grease fires can also work. Do not move the pan or pour water. If the fire is spreading or you can’t control it, evacuate and call emergency services.