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How to: Extinguish a kitchen fire

By William Hageman, Chicago Tribune, Source: MCT News Service

Degree of difficulty: Medium: Actions are not difficult but required in a time of panic

Tools required: Pan lid, fire extinguisher, common sense

According to the National Fire Protection Association, four out of five fire-related deaths among civilians occur in the home. It makes sense to be prepared. Smoke alarms can alert you to a fire, and sprinklers can extinguish a blaze. Beyond that, fire extinguishers are a must, but even that might not be sufficient. If it's small enough and you think you can put it out, "always make sure everyone is out of the house and at a safe distance," says Heather Paul of State Farm Insurance.

Kitchen fires: Most home fires occur in the kitchen; unattended cooking is the leading cause. For any kitchen fire, the first thing to do is turn off the heat. For a grease fire or any pan fire on the stove, place a metal lid or plate over the fire to cut off the oxygen supply. (And keep the lid on; lifting it resupplies oxygen and contents will burst back into flame).

A fire extinguisher can handle a grease fire (don't use water; that only makes the fire spread). If the fire is contained to the pot, bank the spray from the extinguisher off the back of the stove or the bottom of the microwave if it's above the stove. If the oil or grease has already spilled and the top of the oven is on fire, sweep the spray of the extinguisher at the base of the fire. For a toaster fire, unplug the toaster and use an extinguisher. If a fire is in the oven or microwave, leave the door closed until the fire burns out.

Fire extinguishers are not created equal. Some are rated for fires involving paper, trash and cloth; some for fires involving flammable liquids; still others for electric fires. Some are multipurpose, the best choice for homes.

Not sure what to buy? Go to your local fire department or the NFPA website (nfpa.org).

Have an extinguisher on each floor of the home, but at least have one in the kitchen.

Familiarize yourself and your family with how the extinguisher works. (In general: Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the trigger evenly, spray in a back-and-forth motion.) Check it annually to be sure it's filled and working properly. (The best place to have it looked over is at a fire station, Paul says.)

Firefighting strategies:

If the room begins to fill with smoke, get out and call 911.

When fighting a fire, keep yourself between it and an exit, in case it gets out of control.

If a fire spreads or builds, get everyone out of the house and call the fire department. Kitchen fires can double in size every 60 seconds; speed is essential.

Never turn your back on a fire, even after it's out. Fires can rekindle almost instantly. Even if you extinguish it, call the fire department to make sure it is indeed out.

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(c) 2011, Chicago Tribune.

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