Fires involving combustible cooking media, such as oils and grease, are classified as which class?

Fires involving combustible cooking media, such as oils and grease, are classified as class K fires. Class K fires are specifically related to fires that originate from cooking oils and fats, which are common in commercial kitchens and can reach high temperatures that make them particularly hazardous. This classification is important for firefighters because it dictates the appropriate type of fire extinguisher to use. Class K fire extinguishers are designed to cool and saponify the burning oils, effectively extinguishing the flames and preventing re-ignition.

The other classifications pertain to different materials: class B fires involve flammable liquids (like gasoline or paint), class C fires involve energized electrical equipment, and class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and cloth. Understanding these classifications is crucial for effectively managing different types of fire emergencies.