Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

Which class of fire extinguisher should be used to combat kitchen fires?

1. Class A

2. Class D

3. Class B

4. Class K

The correct answer is: Class K

The correct choice is the class of fire extinguisher specifically designed for kitchen fires, which is class K. Class K extinguishers are formulated to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, which are common in kitchens, especially in commercial settings where deep frying is prevalent. Class K extinguishers utilize a wet chemical agent that cools the fire, as well as forms a barrier between the oxygen and the fuel, effectively extinguishing the flames. This is particularly important because kitchen fires often involve very high temperatures and can rapidly become more dangerous if not addressed with the appropriate type of extinguisher. In contrast, class A extinguishers are intended for ordinary combustible materials like wood and paper; class B extinguishers are suited for flammable liquids like gasoline and oil but are not effective against cooking fires; and class D extinguishers are meant for combustible metals, which do not typically apply to kitchen environments. Thus, class K is the most suitable and effective choice for dealing with fires that arise in the kitchen.