What type of fires does the "Class K" designation refer to?

The "Class K" designation specifically refers to fires that involve cooking oils and fats. This classification is crucial in firefighting because such fires behave differently compared to other classes of fires due to the nature of the materials involved. Cooking oils and fats can reach extremely high temperatures and may ignite vigorously, making them particularly hazardous.

Class K extinguishing agents are designed to cool the burning oil and absorb heat effectively, while also preventing re-ignition, which is essential for effectively tackling these types of fires. Common extinguishing agents for Class K fires include wet chemical extinguishers, which are engineered to create a barrier between the oxygen and the fuel source, thus mitigating the fire.

Understanding this classification is important for first responders, kitchen staff, and anyone involved in cooking or food preparation settings, as it highlights the specialized approach needed for effectively managing fires involving these substances.