Which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for kitchen fires?

A Class K fire extinguisher is specifically designed for kitchen fires that involve cooking oils and fats, which are common in food preparation environments. These types of fires are unique because they can release significant amounts of heat and can spread rapidly. Class K extinguishers contain special agents, often potassium-based, that are effective in extinguishing such fires by cooling the flames and preventing re-ignition.

In contrast, a Class A fire extinguisher is suitable for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper but does not effectively address the unique challenges posed by cooking oils. A Class B fire extinguisher is intended for flammable liquids but is not tailored for the specific type of fires found in kitchens. A Class D extinguisher is specialized for combustible metals, which are not typically a concern in kitchen fires. Therefore, the Class K fire extinguisher is the most appropriate choice for dealing with kitchen fires.