How to Safely Extinguish a Kitchen Grease Fire in Under 2 Minutes

Act Fast: The Golden Rule of Grease Fires

A grease fire can start in seconds when cooking oil gets too hot. The most important thing to remember is this: never throw water on a grease fire. Water will instantly vaporize, carrying droplets of burning oil into the air and creating a dangerous fireball. Instead, follow this simple, step-by-step emergency plan to extinguish the fire safely.

Step 1: Turn Off the Heat Source

Immediately turn off the burner or oven. If you can reach the controls safely without putting your hands near the flames, cut the power. This removes the heat source that is sustaining the combustion.

Step 2: Smother the Flames with a Metal Lid

Slide a metal pot lid or a large baking sheet over the top of the pan. Do not drop it straight down, as this can splash burning oil; slide it from the side. This cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire. Do not use a glass lid, as the intense heat can cause it to shatter.

Step 3: Leave the Pan Alone to Cool

Once the lid is on, leave it there. Keep the pan covered for at least 15 to 20 minutes until it has completely cooled down. Removing the lid too early can reintroduce oxygen and reignite the fire.

Step 4: Use Baking Soda for Small, Escaped Flames

If the fire is small and not yet out of control, you can smother it by dumping a large amount of baking soda onto the flames. It takes a lot of baking soda to work, so grab the whole box. Never use flour, baking powder, or cornstarch, as these substances are highly flammable when airborne and will worsen the fire.

Step 5: Use a Class B Fire Extinguisher as a Last Resort

If the fire is spreading and you cannot smother it, use a Class B dry chemical fire extinguisher. Stand back several feet and aim at the base of the fire. Be aware that the force from the extinguisher can splash burning grease, so only use this if other methods fail.

When to Evacuate

If the grease fire spreads beyond the stove, fills the kitchen with thick smoke, or you cannot put it out within 30 seconds, abandon your efforts immediately. Get everyone out of the house and call 911 from a safe distance outside.