What should you NOT use to put out a grease fire?

Using water to put out a grease fire is extremely dangerous and ineffective. Water is denser than oil and will not extinguish the flames; instead, it can cause the burning oil to splatter and spread the fire further. When water is applied to a grease fire, it can instantly turn to steam and expand, exacerbating the situation and creating a larger fire hazard.

In contrast, using a fire extinguisher specifically designed for grease fires, such as a Class K or a multi-purpose extinguisher, is recommended. These extinguishers work by smothering the fire or removing oxygen, which effectively suppresses it without causing further spread. Similarly, using salt can help to smother flames because it doesn't react with burning oil, while flour, although sometimes considered as a potential option, is not advisable because it can combust and make the fire worse.

Understanding the proper methods for extinguishing a grease fire is crucial for safety in the kitchen, as it can make the difference between controlling a small incident and facing a major disaster.