Imagine that you are out and about getting some work done then suddenly you see a fire about a couple feel away. Here, let’s make it a little more personal. Let’s say you are in the kitchen cooking up something special then suddenly, the stove bursts out in flames. You look to your left, expecting to see a fire extinguisher sitting on the shelf but you’re out of luck. The only thing sitting on the shelf is that bag of flour you probably overspent on.
Trust us, being in such a situation can be scary, that is why we are here to explain to you how to get yourself out of trouble. You will be surprised to know that there are some things in your kitchen cabinet that can put out a fire without a fire extinguisher.
1. Dirt:
Whether you believe it or not, dirt is a tremendous way to put out a fire if you don’t have a fire extinguisher handy. This is an especially helpful tool if you are outdoors where fire takes place. All you have to do is grab a bucket of dirt from your garden box, or sand from little Timmy’s sandbox. Remember to think quickly, throwing the dirt onto your fire will surely put it out quickly. Think of it as burying the fire alive.
2. Water:
I’m sure you all know that fire and water are arch enemies. Well, what other substance would be the perfect combatant to counter any damage that fire is conflicting? But, be warned, water will put out a fire, but if it’s an electrical fire, it could cause more damage. Pouring water on a fire that started electrically could be very dangerous and create an even greater fire. The same thing would happen if the fire is originating from your cooking pan or other utensil. So no pouring water on these!
In a situation where electricity is the source of a fire, it is best to contact a professional to fix the problem. To put out a fire, we recommend that you fill a bucket and quickly dump it over the fire to put it out.
Side Note: Water can be very dangerous. Sometimes, when it splashes, it can cause the fire to spread rapidly. Make sure you are aware while trying to put a fire out with water.
3. Salt & Baking Soda:
Yes, who would’ve ever thought that the salty-powdery substance that you keep for your kitchen cabinets would be great for putting out fires. This is a common ingredient that is found in most homes in the pantry, so if a kitchen fire happens, you’re in luck.
When baking soda is heated it produces CO2 a gas, which, coincidentally, is found in fire extinguishers. Salt is also an ingredient found in all fire extinguishers, so mixing the two is bound to defeat any nasty flames that are popping up. Now, don’t get any ideas about making your own makeshift fire extinguishers, it can be very dangerous.
4. Blanket:
We know beggars can’t be choosers, but what else do you do when all else fails. If you have no other option available, we recommend that you grab a blanket that isn’t flammable and smother it over the fire to put it out.
Note: Be sure to not lift the blanket up for at least 5 minutes after putting it over a fire. A fire, like human, needs oxygen to breathe and lifting the blanket up would give it more oxygen and keep it burning.
5. Microwave Fires:
This is rarer than you think; but if something in a microwave catches on fire, make sure you keep the door on the microwave closed. Opening the door could cause the fire to spread throughout the building. There is no reason to panic, just keep the door closed and the lack of oxygen will cause the fire to disappear. Don’t forget to turn off the microwave first, and, if possible, unplug it from the electrical outlet.
6. Cooking Pot:
If something in a cooking pot catches on fire, the best thing to do is to put a lid on top of the pot right away. Remember, the lack of oxygen will cause the fire to be put out.
Final Note:
Remember while these ways always work, sometimes you’ll find yourself in a helpless position. It is then in your best interest to call 911 and let the experts handle it rather than risking yourself and your family.