Cooking ProTip: How To Put Out A Grease Fire

Gourmandize

Burning question: how do I stop a sudden greasefire from engulfing my stove? First off, you should know why grease fires happen.

Basically, grease fires occur when oil becomes too hot. Here's what happens when oil is heated: first it starts boiling, then it starts smoking, then it catches fire. So the best thing you can do for a grease fire is prevent it: stay close and keep your eye on whatever you're cooking. If the oil starts smoking, that's a warning sign — turn down the heat. 

If disaster stikes and a fire breaks out, here's what you should do...

• Turn The Heat Off — If you safely can. Turn off the heat, and stand clear. Don't attempt to tamper with the pot by moving it around. 
• Cover With A Metal Lid — This will cut off the fire's oxygen supply, hopefully smothering it. Make sure to use a metal lid, as a glass one can smash at such high temperatures. 
• Douse With Baking Salt or Baking Soda  — Salt will smother the fire, and baking soda will chemically extinguish it. You're going to need a lot, so throw handfuls with abandon until the fire starts to subside. Do not use flour or baking powder, as these can explode in the flames.
• Spray With A Class B Fire Extinguisher — Aim for the base of the flames. If used improperly, this can actually make things worse. Better just call the fire department. 
• Get Out And Call 911 

And here's what you should never do:

• NEVER PUT WATER on a grease fire. Unless you have a taste for suffering. Water will only help spread the greasefire, around your kitchen and to your body. 
• Do not move the pot or pan. Picking it up to move it outside might cause hot, burning oil to splash on you, or your kitchen... Causing burns and potentially spreading the fire.

All clear? Good. No go forth, and cook safely!

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