What should be used to smother a fire before extinguishing?

Using a lid or blanket to smother a fire is an effective method for extinguishing certain types of fires, particularly small kitchen fires. When a fire is smothered, the source of oxygen that fuels the fire is eliminated. The lid or blanket covers the flames, preventing fresh oxygen from reaching them, thus inhibiting the combustion process. This method is particularly useful for grease fires or fires in pots and pans because it helps contain and suffocate the flames without splashing or potentially spreading burning material, which could occur with water.

Other options, while sometimes applicable in certain scenarios, may not provide the same effectiveness. For example, water can be a poor choice for grease or electrical fires, as it can cause the flames to spread or lead to electrical shock. Sand can be effective for certain types of fires, such as those involving flammable liquids, but is not always the most practical option in a home setting. Newspaper is generally not effective for smothering fires and can even ignite further. Therefore, using a lid or blanket is the safest and most efficient method in this context.