Keep working smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide alarm, have two ways out of every room, and keep an ABC-rated fire extinguisher in the kitchen. To use it, remember PASS: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep — but only after everyone else is out and someone has called 911. If a fire is spreading, get out and call 911 — don't be a hero.
Prevent and prepare
- Working smoke alarms on every level and right outside where people sleep — test monthly. Check the date on the back, too: alarms expire after about 10 years, working battery or not.
- A carbon monoxide alarm. CO is the one that kills you politely — no smell, no smoke. Keep generators, grills, and camp stoves outside and away from windows, never in a garage.
- An escape plan with two exits from each room and a meeting spot. On the way out: stay low (the breathable air is near the floor), touch doors with the back of your hand before opening them, and close doors behind you — a closed door buys real minutes.
- A fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen (and know where it is).
- Never leave cooking unattended; keep flammables away from heat.
Using an extinguisher: P.A.S.S.
- Pull the pin.
- Aim low, at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep side to side.
Extinguishers are for small, contained fires. Before you use one: everyone else is out, someone is dialing 911, you're standing 6–8 feet back, and the door is behind you — the fire never gets to be between you and the way out. If you can't say yes to all of that, you're not fighting it, you're leaving. Your life beats your stuff, every time.
Lid on, burner off, walk away. Never add water, and never carry a burning pan to the sink — water on burning grease makes a fireball. This is the most likely kitchen fire you'll ever meet, so it's the one worth memorizing.
Common questions
What kind of extinguisher do I need?
A multipurpose 'ABC' extinguisher covers most home fires. Check the gauge occasionally and replace it per the label.