What type of fire extinguisher is designed for kitchen fires involving cooking oils?

A Class K fire extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, which are common in kitchen environments. These types of fires can occur from substances such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and greases typically found in commercial and residential kitchens.

Class K extinguishers contain a special wet chemical agent that effectively cools the burning oils and forms a barrier between the oxygen and the fuel, thus smothering the fire. Utilizing the wrong type of extinguisher, such as those designed for other classes, could exacerbate the fire or not effectively extinguish it. For example, Class A extinguishers are suitable for ordinary combustible materials such as wood and paper, while Class B extinguishers are used for flammable liquids and gases. Class C extinguishers are meant for electrical fires. None of these are suitable for kitchen fires involving cooking oils, making the Class K fire extinguisher the only appropriate choice for that scenario.