a. Stay attentive: The most important step in preventing kitchen fires is to stay vigilant. Never leave the kitchen unattended when cooking.

b. Keep flammable items away: Keep dish towels, paper towels, pot holders, and other flammable items away from the stove or other heating appliances.

c. Clean your appliances: Grease and food residue can catch fire. Regularly clean your stovetop, oven, and other kitchen appliances to prevent buildup.

d. Use the right cooking temperature: Be cautious not to overheat cooking oil, as it can ignite. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature when frying.

e. Maintain appliances: Ensure your kitchen appliances are in good working order. Faulty wiring or malfunctioning appliances can lead to fires.

f. Use caution with open flames: Be careful when using candles, especially in the kitchen. Keep them away from flammable materials.

g. Keep a fire extinguisher: Have a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires within easy reach and know how to use it.

h. Install smoke alarms: Ensure your kitchen is equipped with a working smoke alarm. Test it regularly and change the batteries at least once a year.

WHAT TO DO IF ONE DOES OCCUR:

a. Stay calm: Panic can make the situation worse. Stay calm and composed.

b. Turn off the heat source: If a fire occurs on the stove, turn off the burner immediately. If it's an oven fire, keep the oven door closed and turn it off.

c. Cover the flames: Use a lid or a metal cookie sheet to smother the flames in a pan. Do not use glass lids, as they can shatter from the heat.

d. Use a fire extinguisher: If you have a fire extinguisher, use it. Aim at the base of the flames and sweep from side to side. If you don't have an extinguisher or the fire is out of control, call 911 immediately.

e. Do not use water: Never use water to extinguish a grease fire; it can cause the fire to spread. Water can cause hot oil to splatter, making the situation more dangerous.

f. Evacuate safely: If the fire can't be contained, evacuate everyone from the area and call the fire department.

g. Keep an oven fire closed: If a fire occurs in your oven, do not open the oven door. Keep it closed to starve the fire of oxygen and call the fire department.

Remember, your safety is the top priority. Always have a plan for dealing with kitchen fires and know how to use a fire extinguisher. Practicing fire safety in the kitchen can help prevent fires and ensure a quick response if one does occur.