Question

before going for the fire extinguisher (if a pan is on fire on the stove) you can attempt to smother the fire with... baking soda. a wet towel. a tight fitting lid. both baking soda & a tight fitting lid.

Explanation:

Smothering a stovetop pan fire removes oxygen, which fuels the fire. A tight-fitting lid seals off oxygen entirely. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) releases carbon dioxide when heated, displacing oxygen to extinguish small fires. A wet towel is not ideal as it can splatter grease, and water should never be used on grease fires. Both baking soda and a tight-fitting lid are valid smothering methods.

Answer:

Both baking soda & a tight fitting lid.