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 one of the most dangerous types of household fires, but with the right knowledge, you can handle them safely.

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

Sometimes, accidents can still happen even when we are careful. If a grease fire happens, stay calm and perform these five steps:

1. Turn off the heat. Safely and quickly turn off the burner to stop feeding the fire.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. Evacuate and call 911. If the fire becomes uncontrollable, evacuate the house immediately. Call 911 for professional assistance.

For more information about grease fires, please visit our blog today: https://www.servicemasterofroswell.com/grease-fire/

For assistance with grease fire damage restoration in Alpharetta, GA, and nearby areas, contact ServiceMaster Roswell today. https://www.servicemasterofroswell.com/contact-us/