Why do not attempt to put out fire using the fire extinguisher as this may the frying pan causing the fire to spread to other areas?

Frying-pan or chip-pan fires should be covered with a damp (NOT wet) cloth - and simply left alone for at least 30 minutes. This removes oxygen and extinguishes the flames. Using an extinguisher (which is pressurised) - may simply spread the burning oil around the area before it's effective at 'killing' the fire.