The Pineland Volunteer Fire Department has released some fire safety information that everyone needs to know;
Picture this: You’re making lunch, step away for just a second, and suddenly, flames are licking your cabinets. That’s exactly what happened to me, and let me tell you—I learned my lesson the hard way. A fire extinguisher saved my kitchen (and my nerves), but not before I fumbled through the panic. If you don’t already have one in your home, here’s why you absolutely need one—and how to use it before disaster strikes.
The smoke alarm was wailing, my heart was pounding, and for a split second, I froze. Flames were climbing fast. I didn’t have time to search for baking soda or remember those “in case of emergency” tips I’d read once upon a time.
Moments earlier, I’d run to the garage to tell my husband lunch was almost ready—grilled cheese sandwiches. I got distracted. When I came back, my sizzling hot skillet had turned into a full-blown fire. I knew enough to try smothering it with a pot lid, but it wasn’t airtight. Within seconds, the flames doubled in size.
And that’s when I saw it—the fire extinguisher I’d left sitting on the counter so long it had practically become part of the decor. I’d never actually used one before. I’d skimmed the instructions once, maybe twice. But in that moment, instincts kicked in.
I grabbed it, yanked out the red plastic ring (easier than I expected), pointed the nozzle, and squeezed the trigger. One mighty blast of fine yellow powder shot out with so much force it nearly knocked me over—but it worked. The fire was out.
If you don’t already have a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach, let me tell you: this is one household essential you never want to be without. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the right one, where to keep it, and how to use it before you’re in full-on panic mode.
Shocking Fire Safety Stats Every Homeowner Should Know
My kitchen fire scare didn’t just shake me—it sent me into full-blown research mode. What I found was sobering: Home fires happen far more often than we realize, and the consequences can be devastating.
• Every 95 seconds, a home fire was reported in 2023. That’s about 900 fires a day (NFPA).
• In just the first few weeks of 2025, there have already been 388 home fire fatalities.
• Cooking is the # 1 cause of home fires, followed by heating equipment.
• In 2023, fire departments responded to a fire somewhere in the U.S. every 23 seconds.
• Every three hours, a fatal house fire occurred in 2023, while one home fire injury happened every 52 minutes.
• December is the most dangerous month for house fires, with Christmas Eve and Christmas Day ranking as two of the worst days for cooking-related fires.
• Almost 60% of home fire deaths happen in properties with no working smoke alarms.
What This Means for You
These numbers aren’t just statistics—they’re real-life emergencies happening in homes just like yours and mine. Fire spreads fast, and the difference between a close call and a full-blown disaster often comes down to having the right tools and knowing how to use them.
First Call 911
As much as I’m grateful for my fire extinguisher, I did not handle everything by the book. A fire extinguisher is no substitute for the fire department. One-third of all fire injuries happen when people try to fight the flames themselves. That’s why fire safety experts are clear: Call 911 first. Then, grab the extinguisher.
Before you take action, make sure:
• The fire is small and contained (like a stovetop flare-up).
• You have a clear escape route in case things take a turn.
• You can stay at least six feet away while using the extinguisher.
If the fire doesn’t go out immediately, close the door to contain it, get everyone out, and leave the house fast. Then, meet the firefighters out front and direct them to the fire’s location.
A fire extinguisher can save your home—but only if you use it wisely.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: The PASS Method
When it’s time to act, remember PASS—the simple four-step method for using a fire extinguisher effectively:
Pull the pin
This unlocks the extinguisher and prepares it for use.
Aim low
Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire—not the flames.
Squeeze the lever
Firmly press the lever to release the extinguishing agent. Some models have a button instead—know your extinguisher before you need it!
Sweep side to side
Move the nozzle back and forth while staying focused on the fire’s base. Keep going until the flames are completely out. If the fire reignites, repeat the process.
How Many Fire Extinguishers Do You Really Need?
More than one. The general rule of thumb is one extinguisher per 600 to 700 square feet per floor of your home. But placement matters just as much as quantity.
If you only have one, make sure it’s centrally located, mounted off the ground, and easy to see—you don’t want to waste precious seconds searching for it during an emergency.
For better protection, keep a fire extinguisher anywhere fires are most likely to start:
• Near the stove
• By the fireplace or wood-burning stove
• Next to the furnace
• In the laundry room (dryer lint is no joke!)
• Near major electrical panels or workshops
The goal is simple: Have the right extinguisher, in the right place, before you need it.
All information and photo courtesy of the Pineland Volunteer Fire Department
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