What is the primary function of the fire extinguisher labeled 'K'?

The fire extinguisher labeled 'K' is specifically designed to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, particularly those found in commercial kitchens. These types of fires, known as K fires, result from ignited cooking oils and can be extremely hazardous due to the high temperatures and the volatile nature of these substances.

Class K extinguishers contain special agents that are effective for these specific fire types, unlike other extinguishers that are suited for different classes of fires, such as electrical fires or flammable liquids. The agents in Class K extinguishers work by cooling the flames and creating a barrier to suppress the fire effectively, which is crucial when addressing the unique challenges posed by cooking-related fires. Understanding the specific applications of fire extinguishers ensures that users can select the correct type to manage different fire scenarios efficiently and safely.