Not All Fires Are the Same: How to Respond to Different Types of Fires Safely

The First Rule: Call 911

Before anything else, if a fire is growing, spreading, or you are unsure how to handle it, leave immediately and call 911.

No property is worth risking your life. Fire can spread faster than expected, and smoke inhalation is often more dangerous than flames.

If a fire is small and contained, you may be able to act. But only if it is safe to do so.

Why Water Is Not Always Safe

Many people instinctively reach for water when they see flames. While water is effective for some fires, it can make others significantly worse.

Using the wrong method can:

• Spread the fire
• Cause electrical shock
• Create dangerous flare-ups

Understanding the type of fire is critical before taking action.

Grease Fires (Kitchen Fires)

Grease fires are one of the most common household fire types, often occurring on stovetops.

Never use water on a grease fire.
Water can cause the burning grease to splatter and spread rapidly, creating a larger and more dangerous fire.

What to Do:

• Turn off the heat source if possible
• Cover the flames with a metal lid or baking sheet to smother the fire
• Use baking soda to help extinguish small flames
• Use a Class B or multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher if available

Do not move the pan, as this can spread burning grease.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, smothering the fire is the safest method for small grease fires.

Electrical Fires

Electrical fires can occur from faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, or malfunctioning appliances.

Never use water on an electrical fire.
Water conducts electricity and can cause serious injury or electrocution.

What to Do:

• Turn off the power at the breaker if it is safe to do so
• Use a Class C or multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher
• Keep a safe distance

If the fire involves wiring inside walls or continues after power is shut off, evacuate and call 911 immediately.

Ordinary Combustible Fires (Wood, Paper, Fabric)

These are the types of fires most people think of when they imagine flames.

What to Do:

• Water can be used safely in these cases
• A Class A or ABC fire extinguisher is also effective

Even with these fires, only attempt to extinguish them if they are small and contained.

Appliance and Dryer Fires

Fires involving appliances often begin as electrical or lint-related fires.

What to Do:

• Turn off power if possible
• Use an appropriate fire extinguisher
• Do not open doors on appliances like dryers if flames are inside, as oxygen can intensify the fire

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers can be effective, but only under the right conditions.

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends using an extinguisher only if:

• The fire is small and contained
• You have a clear escape path
• You know how to use the extinguisher

Remember the PASS method:

• Pull the pin
• Aim at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the handle
• Sweep side to side

Smoke and Detection Save Lives

Many fires become deadly not because of flames, but because of smoke.

Early detection is critical. Smoke detectors and monitored fire systems provide immediate alerts, giving occupants more time to respond or escape.

At Cultris Security Systems, we help homeowners install monitored fire and life safety systems that provide real-time alerts and emergency response support.

Know When to Leave

The most important decision you can make during a fire is knowing when to stop trying to fight it.

If the fire grows, spreads, or creates heavy smoke:

• Evacuate immediately
• Get everyone out
• Call 911

Do not re-enter the home for any reason.

Preparation Makes the Difference

Understanding how to respond to different types of fires can prevent a small incident from becoming a major emergency.

However, preparation is just as important as response. Having the right detectors, extinguishers, and monitoring in place can make all the difference.

If you want to improve your home’s fire detection and life safety systems, call Cultris Security Systems at 281-506-8466 or visit www.cultrissecurity.com to learn how we can help protect your home and your family.