Which class of combustibles includes cooking oils?

The correct classification for cooking oils falls under Class K combustibles. Class K fires are specifically related to cooking media, including oils and fats, which can ignite and burn at high temperatures. This classification is important because the extinguishing agents used for Class K fires must effectively cool and emulsify the burning oils to suppress the fire safely.

Class K extinguishers contain specific agents designed to combat these types of fires, such as potassium acetate, which helps to create a barrier between the oxygen and the combustibles, effectively extinguishing the fire while also minimizing the risk of re-ignition. Therefore, understanding the characteristics and behavior of these cooking oils helps fire investigators and emergency responders correctly manage and extinguish fires in kitchen environments.

Other classes do not encompass cooking oils: Class A is for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper; Class B is for flammable liquids; Class D is for combustible metals, which further clarifies why cooking oils belong to Class K.