What type of fire extinguisher would you use for a kitchen fire involving oils?

Using a Class K fire extinguisher for a kitchen fire involving oils is the correct choice because Class K extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve cooking oils and fats, such as those found in kitchen environments. These extinguishers typically contain a specially formulated agent that can effectively cool cooking oils and suppress flames by creating a barrier between the oxygen and the fuel.

Class K extinguishers often utilize potassium acetate as the extinguishing agent, which works through a saponification process—converting the burning fat into a soap-like substance, thus extinguishing the fire. This is particularly important in kitchens where deep-frying and cooking with oils can lead to high-temperature flare-ups.

In contrast, while Class A extinguishers are suited for ordinary combustibles (like wood and paper), Class B extinguishers are meant for flammable liquids and gases. Class C extinguishers are designated for electrical fires. These extinguishers may not adequately address the unique challenges posed by oil fires and could even exacerbate the situation if used incorrectly. Hence, a Class K extinguisher is indeed the best choice for safely handling kitchen fires involving oils.