Water-triggered fat explosion seriously injures woman

A 24-year-old woman was seriously injured on Friday afternoon after trying to extinguish burning cooking fat with water in her apartment in Wiener Neustadt, ORF reported. The water triggered a forceful fat explosion that sent hot grease up to the kitchen ceiling.

The woman suffered serious facial injuries. Rescue workers and an emergency doctor treated her, and she was placed in an induced coma as a precaution before being flown by helicopter to the AKH hospital in Vienna.

The fire had gone out by the time firefighters arrived. They checked the kitchen for hot spots, cut power to the stove and ventilated the smoke-filled apartment. They also inspected neighbouring apartments. The fire service said there was no significant fire damage, with damage largely limited to smoke. The operation ended after about half an hour.

Fire commander Christian Pfeiffer warned that burning fat must never be extinguished with water, as even a small amount can cause a violent explosion. For a small grease fire, the fire service advises covering the flames with a suitable lid and turning off the stove if it is safe to do so. A Class F fire extinguisher can also be used. Burning pans or pots should not be moved. If it is not safe to tackle the fire, people should leave the room and call the fire service on 122.