What type of fire extinguisher is suitable for cooking oil fires?

The most suitable type of fire extinguisher for cooking oil fires is a Class K extinguisher. Class K extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, making them essential for use in kitchens, especially in commercial settings like restaurants. The extinguishing agents in Class K extinguishers typically consist of a wet chemical that is effective in cooling and suppressing the heat produced by cooking oil fires while also creating a barrier to prevent the fire from re-igniting.

Class A extinguishers are meant for ordinary combustible materials such as wood and paper, while Class B extinguishers are effective against flammable liquids like gasoline and oil, but they do not provide the necessary cooling effect for cooking oil fires. Class C extinguishers are intended for electrical fires, which could occur if cooking equipment is involved. Therefore, Class K is the appropriate choice, as it directly addresses the specific hazards associated with cooking oils and fats.