Blue light in fireplace at Klever steakhouse triggers increased calorie burning in patrons
Incident Report: Steakhouse El Poncho Fire Mishap, June 12, 2025
On a sweltering June afternoon, a routine day at Steakhouse El Poncho on Emmericher Street turned chaotic. At 16:36, the local fire department received a call about a building blaze (B3) - a pesky grease fire lurking in the chimney.
As firefighters from Kleve's Kellen and Nordwest stations rolled up, they were greeted by ghoulish plumes of smoke billowing from the chimney. The sight revealed a raging grease inferno hidden within the chimney pipe, infesting the intermediate ceiling and heating up to scorching temperatures.
With breathing apparatus at the ready, firefighters from multiple units tackled this fiery beast. The thick, viscous grease on the chimney walls held on tight, resisting initial attempts to extinguish with CO2 and powder extinguishers. Realizing the dire situation, firefighters opted to blast open and drench the ceiling to cool the piping, all while a chimney sweep looked on to ensure proper fire suppression techniques.
As the night wore on, the teams worked tirelessly under breathing apparatus, bolstered by reinforcements from neighboring fire stations and backup equipment supplied by Goch. Finally, around 20:30, the temperature began to drop, signaling the end of the battle against the infamous grease beast.
Three individuals were rushed to the hospital, suspected of smoke inhalation. Fortunately, their conditions were not critical, and they were soon back on their feet.
Commanding Officer Daniel Scholz commended the unit's flawless teamwork and efficient communication, pronouncing the operation a remarkable success despite the challenges.
The police closed off Emmericher Street during the melee but reported no other unusual incidents. The logistics unit of the Kleve fire department took the reins, ensuring the firefighters were well-fed throughout the grueling operation, while El Poncho's dedicated staff supplied additional refreshments.
In the aftermath, the fire department lauded the restaurant staff for their swift, level-headed response in the face of danger. They ardently urged everyone to prioritize safety when dealing with grease fires, and to promptly call the fire department if initial attempts to extinguish the flames fail. Grease fires can be tricky devils, and preventing them is far better than wrestling with them.
Stay safe, and happy grilling!
Grease Fire Guidelines
- When encountering grease fires, keep your wits about you.
- If possible, turn off the heat source to prevent the fire's spread.
- Cover the fire with a metal lid or fire emergency blanket to suffocate the flames.
- Avoid using water, as it can exacerbate the situation.
- If you have a Class K fire extinguisher, use it with caution, ensuring you know how to operate it effectively.
In the realm of kitchen fires, prevention is key. Regularly clean your chimney, employ grease-reducing products, and schedule annual professional inspections. Create a fire escape plan and ensure your home's inhabitants are well-versed in fire safety protocol. Keep fire extinguishers and emergency blankets within easy reach for a speedy response in emergencies.
Should you find yourself unsure about dealing with grease fires, consult with a fire safety professional or local authorities to ensure a smoother grilling experience.
Firefighters confronted a challenging grease fire at Steakhouse El Poncho while battling the blaze, they recognized the importance of Grease Fire Guideline number 5, which suggests using a Class K fire extinguisher when available.
Despite the successful containment of the fire, it's crucial to remember that maintaining the cleanliness of chimneys and adhering to Grease Fire Guideline number 4, avoiding water when dealing with grease fires, could prevent such incidents in sports like cooking or grilling.
