Grease fires in pans are common while cooking with oil, but they can be handled swiftly with the right approach. As a home cook who's learned from a firefighter friend, here's a proven, safe method to prevent disaster.
Don't panic—simple reflexes can save the day. The key is to pour baking soda gently over the burning pan. Watch how it works:
1. First, turn off the range hood immediately to prevent drawing flames upward.
2. Fill a wooden spoon with baking soda.
3. Gently pour the baking soda over the burning pan.
4. Add another spoonful if flames persist.
And just like that, the baking soda extinguishes the fire effortlessly. It's quick, effective, and uses a kitchen staple—no need to hunt for a fire extinguisher.
The wooden spoon's long handle keeps you safely at a distance. For added protection, install a smoke detector in your kitchen.
When heated by flames, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) releases carbon dioxide (CO2), a heavy gas that displaces oxygen and smothers the fire. Professionals rely on this principle; baking soda is a key ingredient in many dry powder fire extinguishers, often combined with silicates, phosphates, mica, silica gel, or polymers.
1. Stay calm—don't run, as panic can lead to slips or falls.
2. Never pour water on a grease fire. It won't extinguish the flames and can cause hot oil to splash, spreading the fire further.
