How Do You Put Out A Grease Fire? And Other FAQs

As a home repair and reconstruction company specializing in fire damage cleanup in Murrieta, we've seen firsthand the devastating effects of grease fires. These types of fires can be incredibly dangerous and destructive, and they are unfortunately all too common in many households. But grease fires raise a lot of questions, too. First off, how do you put out a grease fire? How do they even start?

It's time to compile some common grease fire FAQs and put all your worries to rest.

Plus, we'll show you how to stay safe.

How Do Grease Fires Start?

Grease fires occur when oil or grease becomes too hot and ignites. This can happen when cooking on a stove or in an oven, and it can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation.

One common scenario we have seen is when someone leaves a pan of oil unattended on the stove, and the temperature becomes too high, causing the oil to catch fire.

Another common cause of grease fires is when someone tries to extinguish a fire by pouring water on it. This is especially dangerous with grease fires, as the water will only cause the flames to spread and intensify.

It is important to note that grease fires can occur in both residential and commercial settings. Whether you are cooking at home or in a restaurant, it is crucial to practice safe cooking habits and to have the proper equipment and knowledge to handle a grease fire if it does occur.

How Do You Put Out A Grease Fire?

Here's how to put out a grease fire.

• Turn off the heat source. The first thing to do is to turn off the heat source that caused the fire. This will prevent the fire from growing.
• Cover the flames. If the fire is small and contained, you can try to cover the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet. This will cut off the fire's oxygen supply and suffocate it.
• Use baking soda. Baking soda is a great fire extinguisher for grease fires. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto the fire until it is completely covered. This will create a chemical reaction that will put out the fire.
• Use a fire extinguisher. Use a fire extinguisher if the fire is too big to handle with baking soda or a lid. Make sure you have the correct type of extinguisher for a grease fire, which is a Class B fire extinguisher.
• Do not use water. Never use water to put out a grease fire, as it can cause the fire to spread and make the situation worse.
• Call for help. If the fire is not manageable, evacuate the area and call 911 for professional help.

Grease Fire FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about grease fires.

What Should You Never Pour On A Grease Fire?

You should never pour water on a grease fire.

Water can cause the grease to splatter and spread the fire, worsening the situation. This is because when water touches a grease fire, the water instantly turns to steam, which can cause the hot oil or grease to splatter and spread the fire to surrounding surfaces.

Similarly, using flour, sugar, or other common kitchen ingredients is also ill-advised, as they can ignite and create a dangerous situation.

Using a fire extinguisher designed for Class B fires is the most effective way to extinguish a grease fire. Baking soda is also a valuable tool in putting out a small grease fire, as it can suffocate the fire by depriving it of oxygen. To suffocate the fire, you can also try covering the flames with a metal lid or cookie sheet.

It's important to remember that prevention is vital when it comes to grease fires. Always use caution when cooking with oil or grease, and never leave cooking oil unattended on high heat. 

Following these tips and knowing what not to do in case of a grease fire can help keep your home safe and prevent dangerous situations.

What Is The Quickest Way To Put Out A Grease Fire?

The quickest way to put out a grease fire is to use a fire extinguisher designed for Class B fires. Class B fire extinguishers contain a special foam or dry chemical designed to smother and extinguish flammable liquid fires, including grease fires.

If a fire extinguisher is not readily available or the fire is too large to be safely extinguished with a fire extinguisher, evacuate the area immediately and call 911 for professional help. Remember never to attempt to fight a large or spreading fire on your own, as it can be hazardous and put your safety at risk.

Can You Prevent Grease Fires?

Yes, you can prevent a grease fire by taking simple kitchen precautions. Pay attention, as these tips can help you prevent house fires.

• Never leave cooking oil or grease unattended on high heat. If you must leave the stove or oven, turn off the heat and remove the pot or pan from the burner.
• Keep your cooking area clean and tidy. Clean up any spills or splatters immediately to prevent flammable materials buildup.
• Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of your cooking oil. Different oils have different smoke points, so use an oil that can handle the heat required for your cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the cooking area. Overcrowding can cause food to spill over and ignite on the stovetop.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. In an emergency, having a fire extinguisher on hand can help prevent a small fire before it gets out of control.
• Consider using a deep fryer with a built-in thermostat. This can help regulate the temperature of your cooking oil and prevent it from overheating.

Following these tips can help prevent a grease fire from starting in your kitchen. It's also essential to have an emergency plan in place in case a fire does start so everyone in the household knows what to do and how to stay safe.

When Should I Call For Professional Help After A Grease Fire?

You should call for professional help after a grease fire if it has caused significant damage to your home or if you are unsure if it is safe to enter it after a fire.

Here are some signs that you may need to call a professional fire damage cleanup company:

• There is visible damage to your home, such as charring or discoloration on walls or ceilings, cabinets or countertops, or damaged appliances.
• There is a strong odor of smoke or soot in your home that is difficult to remove.
• The fire has caused damage to your home's electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems.
• There is water damage from firefighting efforts that need cleaning.
• You are unsure if entering your home after a fire is safe.

A professional fire damage cleanup company can help assess the damage and make any necessary repairs to ensure your home is safe to live in again. They can also help with the cleanup and restoration process, which can be complicated and time-consuming.

It's important to act quickly after a fire to minimize damage and prevent further problems, so don't hesitate to call for professional help if you need it.

Here's How To Dispose Of Cooking Oil

Here are some tips on how to dispose of cooking oil safely.

• Let the oil cool down. Never attempt to dispose of hot or warm oil, as it can cause burns and ignite fires. Allow the oil to cool completely before handling.
• Pour the oil into a sealable container. Once the oil has cooled down, pour it into a container with a secure lid. A glass jar or plastic bottle with a tight-fitting cap would work well.
• Label the container. To avoid confusion, label the container clearly with the contents and date. Up-to-date labeling will help you track when you used the oil and when it needs disposal.
• Store the container in a cool, dry place. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of the oil in the trash. Once the container is full, dispose of it in the trash. Do not pour the oil down the drain or toilet; it can clog pipes and harm the environment.
• Recycle the oil. Some areas have programs to recycle the cooking oil. Check with your local waste management department to see if they have a recycling program.

By following these tips, you can safely and responsibly dispose of cooking oil.

Fire Damage Cleanup In Murrieta With Five Star Restoration

At Five Star Restoration in Murrieta, we understand how devastating grease fires can be.

We have the expertise and resources to help homeowners recover from fire damage and get their lives back on track.

We offer comprehensive fire damage cleanup services, including debris removal, structural repairs, and smoke damage and odor removal.

Our team can respond to emergencies and help families get back into their homes as quickly and safely as possible.

Need help with fire damage in Murrieta? Need to clean up water damage after the fire has gone out? Give us a call at 951-368-2227 or send us a message with any questions or concerns.