A little over two weeks ago another Lutheran blogger had a scare with a carbon monoxide detector but turned out OK.

Today we had a little scare of our own. We had not recognized the amount of grease that had collected at the bottom of our oven. I did not see the source of ignition, but all of a sudden my mother (both my parents were visiting) saw fire and called for salt. When she opened the door, the flames grew, and the salt didn’t douse it.

I hadn’t panicked, but I had blanked on where the fire extinguisher was. Once my wife reminded me, I got it out and started taking off the guards. My mother in a nice act of bravery pulled out the burgers that were broiling and the French fries that were on their cookie sheet in order to give me a better shot at the fire. She ended up saving lunch, and I put out the fire.

We spent the afternoon cleaning out the oven, which had a couple of stains around the door but didn’t suffer any more damage. Everyone was all right.

It also occurred to us that our kids were not familiar with the sound of our smoke alarms. My older daughter had been taught to “stop, drop, and roll” if her clothes were on fire. We reviewed what to do with her, thankful that we had the opportunity to do so.

Please check your ovens, especially this time of year when baking activity may be increased. Take a moment to remember where your fire extinguishers are. Check your detectors, and make sure your kids know what they mean and what to do. Four- and five-year-olds can be taught what to do.