If you've ever worked in a commercial kitchen, or even spent time in one, you know just how fast things can go from sizzling to dangerous. Grease fires are no joke — they're one of the most common causes of kitchen fires in restaurants, cafeterias, and food service facilities. That's where Class K fire extinguishers come into play.
At 119 Fire Control, we understand the unique risks that kitchens face every day. Whether you run a small café or manage a large catering operation, having the right fire protection equipment isn't just a legal requirement — it could save lives, property, and your business. In this blog, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about Class K fire extinguishers, why they matter, and how 119 Fire Control can help you stay safe and compliant.
Before diving into Class K specifically, let's take a quick look at fire classifications. Fires are grouped into different classes based on the type of material burning:
Class A: Ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.
Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, and grease.
Class C: Electrical equipment involved in the fire (e.g., wiring, appliances).
Class D: Combustible metals (common in industrial settings).
Class K: Cooking oils and fats — which brings us to our focus today.
While Class B extinguishers were once used for kitchen fires involving grease, they weren't always effective and could sometimes make the situation worse. That's when Class K extinguishers were developed — specially designed for the modern kitchen environment.
A Class K fire extinguisher is specifically engineered to tackle fires caused by cooking media such as vegetable oils, animal fats, margarine, and other high-temperature greases commonly found in commercial kitchens. These fires burn extremely hot and can easily reignite if not properly suppressed.
Class K extinguishers use a wet chemical agent that works in two ways:
Creates a Soap-like Foam Blanket: This smothers the fire by cutting off the oxygen supply.
Cools the Oil Below Its Ignition Temperature: This prevents re-ignition and gives responders more time to assess the situation.
Because of these properties, Class K extinguishers are now the industry standard for restaurant kitchens, food trucks, institutional kitchens, and anywhere else where deep fryers, griddles, or stoves are used regularly.
It might be tempting to think any fire extinguisher will do in an emergency — but that couldn't be further from the truth. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can actually make the fire worse or put people at greater risk.
For example:
Water extinguishers should never be used on grease fires — water reacts violently with hot oil, causing it to splatter and spread the fire.
Dry chemical extinguishers (like those rated for Class ABC) may suppress the flames temporarily, but they don't cool the oil effectively — meaning the fire can quickly return.
Only Class K extinguishers are designed to handle the intense heat and volatile nature of kitchen grease fires safely and effectively.
In the United States, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and local fire codes require all commercial kitchens to have Class K fire extinguishers available and accessible. These regulations are part of broader safety standards like NFPA 10 (Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers) and NFPA 96 (Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations).
Even if you operate a smaller establishment — like a food truck or catering van — you still need to comply with fire safety laws. At 119 Fire Control, we help businesses of all sizes find the right fire suppression solutions and ensure they meet local compliance requirements.
Here's what sets Class K extinguishers apart:
Wet Chemical Agent: Typically potassium-based, which reacts with hot oil to form a foam layer.
Cooling Effect: Reduces the temperature of burning oil to prevent reflash.
Ease of Use: Designed for quick deployment by trained personnel.
Mounting Requirements: Must be installed within 30 feet of cooking equipment, per NFPA guidelines.
Regular Maintenance: Like all fire equipment, Class K extinguishers must be inspected monthly and serviced annually.
Most Class K extinguishers are labeled with both “K” and “B:C” ratings, meaning they're suitable for flammable liquids and electrical fires too — making them versatile tools in the kitchen environment.
Using a fire extinguisher correctly can mean the difference between stopping a fire early and waiting for emergency services to arrive. Follow the PASS method:
Pull the pin
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the handle
Sweep side to side
Remember: If the fire doesn't go out quickly or grows beyond control, evacuate immediately and call 911. Always prioritize human safety over property.
At 119 Fire Control, we offer hands-on fire extinguisher training tailored to your staff's needs. Our certified technicians can also inspect and maintain your equipment so you're always ready.
Any business that uses commercial cooking equipment should have at least one Class K extinguisher on hand. This includes:
Restaurants and cafes
Food trucks and mobile vendors
Catering companies
Institutional kitchens (schools, hospitals, prisons)
Hotels and banquet halls
Grocery store delis and bakeries
Even home chefs who operate high-volume cooking operations should consider investing in a Class K extinguisher — especially if they use large quantities of oil or cook at very high temperatures.
Why invest in Class K extinguishers instead of cheaper alternatives? Here are some key benefits:
Superior Fire Suppression: Specifically designed for grease fires.
Safety First: Lowers the risk of injury during emergencies.
Regulatory Compliance: Meets NFPA and local fire code requirements.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Prevents major damage and reduces insurance claims.
Peace of Mind: Knowing you're prepared for emergencies lets you focus on running your business.
At 119 Fire Control, we believe fire safety shouldn't be an afterthought — it should be part of your daily operations plan.
| Feature | Class K | Class B:C | Water |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Grease fires | Flammable liquids & electrical | Ordinary combustibles |
| Chemical Type | Wet chemical (potassium acetate) | Dry powder (monoammonium phosphate) | Water |
| Re-flash Risk | Very low | High | Extremely high |
| Safe on Electrical Equipment | Yes (if non-conductive) | Yes | No |
| Cooling Effect | Yes | Minimal | Dangerous |
| Recommended for Kitchens | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not ideal | ❌ Never |
As shown above, only Class K extinguishers offer a complete solution for kitchen fires. They're the safest, most effective option available today.
Having a Class K fire extinguisher is only half the battle — proper installation and maintenance are equally important.
Here's what you need to know:
Location: Place the extinguisher within 30 feet of cooking equipment, clearly visible and unobstructed.
Height: Mounted between 3.5 to 5 feet off the ground for easy access.
Visibility: Ensure it's marked with signage and lighting if necessary.
Monthly Checks: Check pressure gauge, hose condition, and pin seal.
Annual Servicing: Have a licensed technician perform a full inspection and recharge if needed.
Training: Make sure all staff members know how to use it and where it's located.
At 119 Fire Control, we provide full-service fire extinguisher inspections, replacements, and employee training programs. We help you stay compliant and ready for anything.
Let's look at a few real-world examples of how Class K fire extinguishers helped prevent disaster:
A popular burger chain experienced a sudden flare-up while frying chicken. Thanks to a nearby Class K extinguisher and well-trained staff, the fire was put out in under 30 seconds. The restaurant avoided major damage and reopened the next day.
During a busy lunch rush, a food truck operator noticed smoke coming from the fryer. He grabbed the Class K extinguisher mounted near the stove and stopped the fire before it could spread. The vehicle sustained minimal damage and passed its next inspection without issue.
These stories highlight the importance of being prepared — and the value of working with professionals like 119 Fire Control who understand the risks and solutions.
Fire safety isn't just about equipment — it's about planning, training, and awareness. Here's how to integrate Class K extinguishers into your overall fire safety strategy:
Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment Identify potential hazards and ensure you have the right extinguishers in place.
Install Fire Suppression Systems Consider adding automatic hood suppression systems for added protection.
Train Staff Regularly Provide annual fire extinguisher training and evacuation drills.
Schedule Routine Inspections Partner with a trusted provider like 119 Fire Control to keep your equipment up-to-date.
Create an Emergency Action Plan Outline clear procedures for responding to fires and evacuations.
While Class K extinguishers are essential, they work best alongside other fire safety tools:
Automatic Fire Suppression Systems: Installed inside kitchen hoods and ducts to detect and suppress fires automatically.
Fire Blankets: Useful for smothering small pan fires quickly.
Smoke Detectors and Heat Sensors: Early warning systems that alert occupants to danger.
Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs: Help guide people to safety during power failures.
At 119 Fire Control, we offer comprehensive fire safety packages that include extinguishers, system installations, and ongoing support. Let us help you build a safer kitchen environment.
We don't just sell fire extinguishers — we partner with you to create a culture of safety. Our team offers:
On-site fire extinguisher training
Customized fire safety plans
Scheduled inspections and maintenance
Replacement and refill services
Emergency response consultations
Whether you're opening a new restaurant or managing an existing location, 119 Fire Control is here to support your fire safety goals.
Don't wait until it's too late. Fire prevention starts with preparation — and choosing the right tools makes all the difference. A Class K fire extinguisher is more than just a piece of equipment; it's a critical line of defense for your kitchen, your team, and your customers.
At 119 Fire Control, we're committed to helping you protect what matters most. Contact us today to schedule a free fire safety consultation, request a quote, or learn more about our fire extinguisher services.
Stay safe. Stay compliant. Stay protected — with 119 Fire Control.
119 Fire Control proudly serves clients across the U.S. and beyond. From New York City to Los Angeles, Miami to Seattle, we deliver top-quality fire protection products and services wherever you are.
Contact us today to find out how we can support your fire safety needs.
In conclusion, Class K fire extinguishers are an essential part of any commercial kitchen's fire safety plan. With their specialized formula designed to combat grease fires effectively, they offer unmatched protection compared to other types of extinguishers. By choosing the right equipment, ensuring regular maintenance, and providing proper training, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents.
At 119 Fire Control, we're more than just a supplier — we're your fire safety partner. Let us help you protect your business, your employees, and your peace of mind.
Stay safe. Be prepared. Trust 119 Fire Control.
Author Bio:
This article was written by the fire safety experts at 119 Fire Control, a leading provider of fire protection solutions for commercial kitchens and food service industries. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we help businesses across the country stay safe, compliant, and ready for emergencies.
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