When should you call the fire department in a Class K fire scenario?

• A. If the fire can be controlled quickly.
• B. If the fire is spreading and occupants are at risk.
• C. If the fire cannot be controlled quickly, if it is spreading, or if occupants are at risk or trapped.
• D. Never call the fire department.

Answer: (C)

Grease and cooking-oil fires can climb to very high temperatures and spread quickly because oil can splatter and rekindle. The safest rule is to call the fire department when you cannot control the fire quickly, when it is spreading, or when occupants are at risk or trapped. If you can contain a small, contained grease fire with a properly rated extinguisher and no one is in danger, you might not need to call immediately, but any sign of rapid growth, spreading flames, or people in danger means professional help should be on the way. Waiting in hopes it stays small is risky because oil fires can surge or reignite unexpectedly. The other options either underestimate the danger or suggest never calling, which isn’t appropriate for a grease fire.