When a lighter catches fire, immediately cool the flame with water or a fire extinguisher. If the lighter is a pocket model, smother it with a cloth or your hand to cut off oxygen. Avoid using water on flammable materials like gasoline or alcohol, as this can spread the fire. Always prioritize safety by moving to a well-ventilated area and alerting others if the fire grows.

The primary steps address the fire triangle (oxygen, heat, fuel). Cooling the flame disrupts heat, while smothering removes oxygen. Fire extinguishers are effective because they release carbon dioxide, which displaces oxygen, and some contain dry chemical agents that absorb heat. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 70% of home fires start with cooking equipment, but lighter-related fires are rare (less than 1% annually). A 2021 study in Fire Safety Journal found that smothering small fires with non-flammable materials reduces spread by 80%. Additionally, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that 95% of lighter fires are contained within 30 seconds if proper techniques are used. Proper maintenance, such as replacing worn wicks or fuel tanks, further prevents ignition. For example, a 2019 CPSC analysis linked 30% of lighter fires to faulty fuel mechanisms. By combining immediate action with regular checks, users mitigate risks effectively.