Fire of any kind that is out of my control scares the living daylights out of me!! When I was a young teen I saw what could happen and I lost two people very dear to me. We keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and go though occasional fire drills to keep both DH and I on our toes and panic do a dull roar. Being careful with an iron is the first line of defense and never use an iron with any cord issues including being taped is areas. Nope, no self repairs. Fire can move very fast. Don't be a fool if it is taller than your waist call 911! and then get out! My friends were not that fortunate. If there is smoke fire follows so unplug the iron if you can. Put the closet blanket, quilt (hopefully and older one), life is more important that a quilt. or even towel over the fire to try and put it out if this fails the fire extinguisher is next. Also throw away the offending iron asap! It will never be safe. Remember smoke usually comes first and unplug. No water if you cannot unplug that can cause a greater problem. Put pride aside and call 911 and get out!