Answer :
Final answer:
A Class K fire extinguisher should be used for fires involving cooking oils and fats due to its specific chemical composition that can safely suppress such fires.
Explanation:
A Class K extinguisher should be used to extinguish fires involving cooking oils and fats. This type of fire extinguisher is designed specifically for kitchen fires that typically involve vegetable or animal fats and oils. The agent in a Class K fire extinguisher, usually a wet chemical like a potassium acetate-based, low PH agent, is able to cool the fire and prevent re-ignition by creating a barrier between the oxygen and the fuel.
Other fire extinguishers, like water or dry chemical extinguishers, are not effective and can be dangerous in this context because they can spread the fire or create a splattering effect, exacerbating the situation.
Flammable liquids are addressed with a Class B extinguisher, electrical fires with Class C extinguishers, and combustible metals require Class D extinguishers. Involving a fire emergency, it is crucial to know which type of extinguisher to use to ensure safety.
Always follow instructions carefully on how to handle flammable chemicals, and be familiar with the safety equipment locations, such as the fire extinguisher, in any environment.
