What should you do when a fire starts on the stove?

When a fire starts on the stove, closing the pot lid to smother the flames is an effective response because it removes the fire's access to oxygen, which is essential for combustion. By covering the pot, you can effectively contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, especially if the flames are small and manageable. This method is particularly useful for grease fires, which can occur while cooking and can quickly become dangerous if not handled properly.

Meanwhile, using a fire extinguisher can be appropriate for larger fires, but it requires knowledge of how to operate the extinguisher and might be overwhelming in a panicked situation. Throwing water on a grease fire is extremely dangerous and can exacerbate the situation by splattering burning grease. Evacuating the kitchen may be necessary in certain scenarios, but if the fire is small and manageable, smothering it should be prioritized as it addresses the source immediately.