Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, cooking! With the hustle and bustle of preparing a feast, kitchen accidents like grease fires can happen unexpectedly. Grease fires are among the most dangerous types of household fires, but with the right knowledge, you can handle them safely.
In this article, we’ll cover how to prevent grease fires, what to do if one occurs, and how to keep your Thanksgiving celebration safe.
ServiceMaster Roswell is your trusted partner in disaster recovery in Roswell, GA, and nearby areas. For assistance with unexpected grease fire damage this Thanksgiving, please call our team at (770) 200-5111 or contact us online.
What are Grease Fires?
A grease fire occurs when cooking oil or fat becomes too hot, igniting into flames. Oils reach their smoke point before catching fire, so watch out for heavy smoke as an early warning sign.
Grease fires are usually caused by overheating oil, unattended cooking, and splashing water on hot grease. Kitchen equipment at high risk of grease fires include frying pans, deep fryers, and ovens.
How to Prevent Grease Fires
Prevention is your first line of defense. Here’s how to reduce the risk of a grease fire:
- Stay alert in the kitchen. Never leave cooking oil or fat unattended. Set timers as reminders and keep an eye on the stove.
- Use the right equipment. Use a heavy, deep pan to minimize splatters. Also, remember to keep the stove area free of flammable items like paper towels or oven mitts.
- Monitor oil temperature. Use a thermometer to prevent oil from overheating. Keep the heat at medium or low when frying.
- Keep safety tools nearby, such as a lid or baking sheet to smother flames, a Class K wet chemical fire extinguisher designed for grease fires, and baking soda or salt (not flour or sugar, which can worsen the fire).
Help! What to Do During a Grease Fire
- Turn off the heat. Safely and quickly turn off the burner to stop feeding the fire.
- Smother the flames. Cover the pan with a metal lid or baking sheet to cut off oxygen. Do not use glass lids—they can shatter.
- Use baking soda or salt. If the fire is small, pour baking soda or salt onto the flames. Avoid using water to prevent the spreading of flames.
- Use a fire extinguisher. If the fire persists, use a Class K wet chemical fire extinguisher. Stand 6 to 8 feet away and aim at the base of the flames.
- Evacuate and call 911. If the fire becomes uncontrollable, evacuate the house immediately. Call 911 for professional assistance.
What NOT to Do During a Grease Fire
Avoid these common mistakes, which can worsen the situation!
- Never use water. Water causes grease to splatter, spreading the fire.
- Don’t move the pan. Moving a flaming pan increases the risk of spreading the fire.
- Avoid flammable substances. Never use flour, sugar, or other powders to smother the fire, as they can ignite.
What to Do After a Grease Fire
Once the fire is extinguished and the area is safe, do the following:
- Wait for the pan to cool. Do not touch or move the pan until it has completely cooled.
- Ventilate the kitchen. Open windows and use fans to clear out smoke.
- Inspect the area. Check for any lingering heat or potential damage to appliances.
- Review safety measures. Replenish fire extinguishers or baking soda supplies and educate family members on grease fire safety.
Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy with loved ones, and safety should always come first. Stay safe, and have a great time! For assistance with grease fire damage restoration in Roswell, GA, and nearby areas, call ServiceMaster Roswell at (770) 200-5111 or contact us online. We are available to answer your call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
