Kitchen safety is essential, especially when cooking with hot oil and open flames. Grease fires can spread quickly, making it important to know how to prevent them and respond safely. One of the most important rules is to **never pour water on a grease fire**, as it can cause burning oil to splatter and spread the flames. Keeping the right safety equipment nearby and staying alert while cooking can help reduce the risk of a dangerous emergency.

If a small grease fire starts in a pan, never attempt to carry it elsewhere. Moving the pan can spill hot oil and spread the fire. If it is safe, turn off the heat without reaching through the flames. A metal lid may help smother the fire by cutting off its oxygen supply. Carefully cover the pan without moving it, and leave the lid in place until everything has cooled completely. Never lift the lid too soon, as the flames could return.

Having suitable fire safety equipment at home is also important. Learn how to use your fire extinguisher before an emergency occurs, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Many extinguishers use the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. However, never attempt to fight a fire that is spreading or producing dangerous smoke.

**Personal safety should always come first.** If a kitchen fire becomes difficult to control, leave the building immediately and contact emergency services from a safe location. Warn others as you leave, and never reenter until emergency responders confirm it is safe.

Preventive habits can also make a difference. Never leave hot oil unattended, keep paper towels and kitchen cloths away from burners, clean grease buildup regularly, and position pot handles where they cannot be easily knocked. Discuss emergency exits with household members and agree on a safe meeting place outside. These simple precautions can help prevent kitchen fires and ensure everyone knows how to respond when an emergency occurs.