What are "class K" extinguishers primarily used for?

Class K extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, particularly in commercial kitchens where such materials are prevalent. The unique composition of cooking oils and fats poses distinct fire hazards, and using standard extinguishing agents can sometimes exacerbate the situation.

Class K extinguishing agents utilize a form of wet chemical that can effectively cool and smother these types of fires while also preventing re-ignition. The capability of these extinguishers to break down the burning fats and oils makes them essential for ensuring safety in environments where deep fryers and other cooking equipment are used.

Understanding the specific application of Class K extinguishers highlights the importance of selecting the right firefighting equipment for different fire risks, which is critical for fire safety compliance in commercial kitchens.