Some fires are easy to extinguish, but if you are unsure, call the fire department before you do anything else. Don't attempt to fight a fire if there is danger of being trapped. Call the fire department and leave the area.
- If the fire is in the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed until the fire burns out. (Usually in a minute or two.)
- For a pan fire on the stove top; Shut off the heat and cover the pan with a lid or plate.
- For a toaster fire, pull the plug and use the fire extinguisher.
- For a deep fat fire or any other grease fire, turn off the heat, and cover with a metal lid. Use the fire extinguisher.
- Never use water on electrical or grease fire. Use a fire extinguisher or cover the fire with a metal lid, plate or baking soda.
- If your clothing catches fire, do not run. The air will fan the flames, and make them burn faster. Immediately drop to the ground and roll until the flames are smothered out.
- If you see another person on fire, wrap the person in a blanket, rug, drapery, towel or coat to smother the flame. If you have nothing to cover the person, grab them, drop to the ground, and roll them until the flames are smothered out.
- Try to remove the burned clothing but do not pull it over the head. If the clothing is stuck to the skin leave it alone. Seek medical attention immediately to treat the burns.
Trash Fires
- A trash fire will spread quickly; Put it out with a water hose if you can get to it in time. If it has begun to spread, call the fire department.
- To prevent fires, keep rubbish, old toys, rags, and boxes to a minimum. Store them away from a furnaces, heaters, and chemicals.
- Keep trash in metal cans with lids.
- Keep space heaters away from curtains, bedding, seating, and walls.
- Keep your home, garage, and yard free of combustible materials.
- After painting and refinishing projects, throw away your oily rags immediately to avoid the hazards of spontaneous combustion. Do not store them.
Camp Fires
- Drown the fire with water.
- Stir the coals and soak them again.
