Why is a Class K fire extinguisher different?

[ChiefBodie]

I have ABC fire extinguishers around the property, and also some water Class A only.

A fireman recently told me I should have a class K in the kitchen. OK, I guess K for kitchen. What makes Class K different?

 

[RNeumann]

A K extinguisher isn’t needed for the typical home kitchen. The K is used in conjunction with the standard hood extinguishment system in a commercial kitchen.

So unless you have a big fryer and commercial hood in the house you can skip the K extinguisher.

Emergency Standards | Portable Fire Extinguishers - Extinguisher Basics | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

 

[George2615]

Here's a description and explanation of the different classes of extinguishers.
Class K


Fire class - Wikipedia

 

[Wagtail]

Here's a description and explanation of the different classes of extinguishers.
Class K


Fire class - Wikipedia

Thanks for the quick reference George2615... your Class K is my Class F.

Being a pedantic, retired, Navy bloke I have two B/E 'dry chem' extinguishers in the house... one by my wood heater and the other just outside the kitchen. I also have a fire blanket inside the kitchen which is primarily there in case of a grease fire... an extinguisher (or, of course, water) would spread a grease fire.

 

[tractorshopper]

K's are very expensive and as already mentioned, intended for industrial kitchens/restaurants.

 

[oosik]

Had a big 'ol grease fire at a Boy Scout cook out - long ago. The Scout Master used a wool blanket over the huge frying pan. Snuffed the fire instantly - horrid smell - burning wool.