You can put out a small fire by pouring salt or baking soda directly onto it to completely cover the flames.
Method Using Salt or Baking Soda
According to the provided reference, the primary way to use salt or baking soda for fire extinguishing is to "Pour baking soda or salt onto the fire".
This method works by smothering the flames, cutting off their oxygen supply when the fire is fully covered by the salt or baking soda.
Steps based on the reference:
- Ensure the fire is small enough to be manageable with this method.
- Locate a container of salt or baking soda.
- Carefully pour the salt or baking soda directly onto the fire.
- Use enough material to completely cover the entire fire area.
Effectiveness and Limitations
The effectiveness of using salt or baking soda to put out a fire is limited by the size of the fire. The reference states, "This method works best for a small fire".
Its effectiveness is also limited by the amount of salt or baking soda available, as you "need enough salt or baking soda to cover the fire completely". If the fire is too large, you may not have enough material to smother it effectively.
Alternative Fire Extinguisher Method
If the fire is larger than what can be covered by salt or baking soda, or if that method is not suitable, a fire extinguisher is an alternative.
The reference mentions specific types suitable for kitchen fires: "You can always spray the fire with a Class B or Class K fire extinguisher".
However, using an extinguisher is suggested as a last resort, particularly in a kitchen setting, because "this should be a last resort since it will contaminate your kitchen."
