What type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for grease fires?

The most appropriate type of fire extinguisher for grease fires is a class K fire extinguisher. Class K extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that occur in cooking oils and fats, which are common in commercial kitchens and restaurants where grease fires can be a significant hazard. The extinguishing agent in a class K extinguisher is typically a wet chemical, such as potassium acetate, that works to cool the fire and create a barrier that prevents the re-ignition of the burning grease.

Using a class K extinguisher is crucial because attempting to extinguish grease fires with water can lead to dangerous splattering and a larger fire, as water can cause the burning oil to spread. Other extinguishers, like an ABC dry chemical, may be effective but are not specifically designed for grease fires and may not provide the same level of safety and effectiveness. Therefore, for kitchen environments where grease fires are a concern, a class K extinguisher is the most suitable choice.