If a fire breaks out in an electric oven, it's essential to act quickly and follow these steps to safely extinguish the fire:
1. Keep the Oven Door Closed: If you notice a fire inside the electric oven, the first thing you should do is keep the oven door closed. This will help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to the surrounding area.
2. Turn Off the Oven: Locate the oven's control panel and turn off the oven immediately. This will cut off the power supply to the heating elements, helping to prevent the fire from getting worse.
3. Do Not Use Water: Do not use water to try to extinguish an electrical fire in the oven. Water conducts electricity, and using it on an electric oven fire can lead to electric shock and may even exacerbate the fire.
4. Use a Fire Extinguisher: If you have a Class C fire extinguisher, which is suitable for electrical fires, and you know how to use it properly, you can attempt to extinguish the fire. Follow the instructions on the fire extinguisher and aim at the base of the fire, sweeping from side to side until the flames are out. If you are unsure about using a fire extinguisher or the fire is spreading rapidly, evacuate the area and call the fire department immediately.
5. Smother the Fire: If you don't have a fire extinguisher or it's not safe to use one, you can try to smother the fire. Use a lid, baking sheet, or any other metal pan that is larger than the oven opening to cover the oven and cut off the oxygen supply. This can help suffocate the fire.
6. Call for Help: Regardless of whether you were able to put out the fire or not, always call the fire department to report the incident. It's better to have professionals verify that the fire is completely extinguished and to assess any potential damage or safety hazards.
7. Keep Everyone Safe: Ensure that everyone in the vicinity is safe and away from the fire. If the fire is too large or spreading rapidly, evacuate the building and call for help immediately.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority. If you're uncertain about how to handle the fire or if it's growing out of control, don't hesitate to evacuate and call the fire department.