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Baking soda is an effective fire reduction method. However, flour and baking powder are very dangerous around flames. Flour is flammable and it can also conduct electricity. The combination can cause serious injury from electrical shock and worsen the situation by adding fuel to the fire. Baking powder is also not an option as it's also highly flammable. 

Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage and restoration, provided the fire was not set intentionally or caused by negligence. Accidental fires, such as those from electrical issues, cooking, or gas, are typically covered. Your policy will usually cover emergency services like roof tarping, the full cost of remediation and rebuilding, and may also cover alternative housing while your home is being restored. You will be responsible for paying your policy's deductible. It is important to check your policy details to see how coverage is calculated—it may be for the full replacement cost of damaged items or the actual cash value, which accounts for depreciation. To expedite your claim, contact your insurance company immediately and have all necessary documentation ready.

Smoke smell and odors typically will not go away completely on their own, especially once the particles have penetrated porous materials like walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture. While airing out affected items can help the smell subside over time, it often lingers for months or even years. To effectively remove stubborn smoke odors, you should combine several methods. Start with a thorough deep cleaning and deodorizing using substances like baking soda or activated charcoal. Air purifiers can also help capture airborne particles. In severe cases, you may need to replace heavily damaged materials. If the smell persists after repeated treatments, consider hiring a professional smoke damage restoration company for assistance.

Luckily, you can typically eliminate your microwave’s burnt smell within a few hours for most situations. Be sure to let it air out for two to three hours after cleaning to let the odor evacuate your home—if you close your home up too early, the odor will be trapped. For stronger, more stubborn burnt smells, it might take a full day or more to really notice a difference.