A fire extinguisher rated as Class K is most appropriate for use on which type of fire?
Correct Answer
C) Cooking oil and grease fires
Class K fire extinguishers are specifically designed for cooking oils and grease fires, typically found in commercial kitchens. They use wet chemical agents that cool and create a barrier over the burning oil.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Class K fire extinguishers are specifically engineered for cooking oil and grease fires, which burn at extremely high temperatures and require specialized suppression methods. These extinguishers use wet chemical agents (typically potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, or potassium citrate) that cool the burning oil below its ignition temperature and create a soapy foam barrier that prevents re-ignition. This makes them essential safety equipment in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food service facilities where cooking oils and animal fats are regularly heated to high temperatures.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Electrical equipment fires
Class C fire extinguishers are designed for electrical equipment fires, not Class K extinguishers.
Option B: Flammable liquid fires
Class B fire extinguishers are used for flammable liquid fires (gasoline, oil, paint), not Class K extinguishers.
Option D: Ordinary combustible material fires
Class A fire extinguishers are used for ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and fabric, not Class K extinguishers.
Memory Technique
Use the mnemonic 'K for Kitchen' - Class K extinguishers are specifically for kitchen fires involving cooking oils and grease, distinguishing them from Class B which covers other flammable liquids.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code, Chapter 9 - Fire Protection Systems, or NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers
More Project Mgmt Questions
What is the minimum R-value required for wall insulation in Florida Climate Zone 2?
A subcontractor brings a new chemical product to your jobsite. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), what information must be immediately available to workers?
A construction site has a trench that is 8 feet deep in Type B soil. What is the maximum allowable slope ratio for the trench walls without protective systems?
A detail drawing shows a scale of 3/4" = 1'-0". If a dimension measures 2.25 inches on the drawing, what is the actual dimension?
What is the maximum recommended spacing between drywall screws when attaching to wood studs?