SOUTH WINDSOR, CT — A South Windsor homeowner who got his family out of the house after discovering a pan of burning cooking oil is drawing praise from firefighters for his response.
Firefighters were called to McGrath Road at 7:03 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, for a reported stove fire, according to a statement shared by the South Windsor Fire Department.
Crews found flames on the stovetop beginning to spread to the cabinets above. They quickly extinguished the fire, preventing further damage, the department said.
Before firefighters arrived, the homeowner evacuated his family, called 911 and gave dispatchers accurate information about the fire, according to the department. He also turned off the burner and did not try to carry the burning pan outside.
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Moving the burning pan could have caused serious injuries or spread the fire, the department said.
"His actions not only helped protect his family but also contributed to a successful outcome by allowing firefighters to intervene before the fire spread further," the department wrote.
The department credited both the homeowner's decisions and firefighters' quick response with helping bring the fire under control.
"Prioritize your safety, evacuate, and call 911. Never attempt to move a pan containing burning oil," the department said.
For more Northern Connecticut news, follow Patch editor Jay Kenney.
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