Quick Answer
To safely extinguish a fire started with steel wool, smother it by covering it with a non-flammable material, and douse it with water once it's extinguished. Never use water first, as it can spread the fire by blowing it into a more intense blaze.
Choosing the Right Smothering Material
When dealing with steel wool fires, you’ll want to smother it by covering it with a non-flammable material. This can be a fire blanket, a heat-resistant tray, or even a metal sheet. The goal is to deprive the fire of oxygen, which prevents it from spreading. A good rule of thumb is to cover the fire with a material at least 3-4 times larger than the fire itself.
Water Application
Once the fire is smothered, it’s safe to douse it with water. However, be cautious not to splash or pour the water directly onto the smothering material, as this can cause it to become wet and potentially catch fire itself. Instead, slowly and gently pour the water onto the edges of the smothering material, allowing it to flow down and extinguish the fire.
Aftermath and Prevention
After extinguishing the fire, inspect the area to ensure that there are no remaining hotspots or embers. If you’re dealing with a steel wool fire, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent it from happening again in the future. This can include storing steel wool in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, and never leaving it unattended.
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