What Type of Fire Extinguisher Is Best For Kitchen Fires Involving Cooking Oils?
23rd Apr 2026
When it comes to fires in the home, the kitchen is a common room for a fire to start and can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Having the right type of fire extinguisher is essential for preventing a small kitchen fire from turning into a full-blown disaster.
For these reasons, it is important to have a Class F fire extinguisher on hand in the kitchen, as it is specifically designed to handle fires caused by cooking oils and fats.
In this article, we explain why Class F fire extinguishers are best suited to tackle a blaze of this kind.
Common Causes of Kitchen Fires
Kitchen fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including human error, faulty equipment, and a misguided cooking technique. Some common causes of kitchen fires include, leaving cooking food unattended and overheating oil or similar materials.
To prevent kitchen fires, it is important to take proper precautions such as staying in the kitchen while cooking, monitoring temperatures, and keeping flammable materials away from heat sources.
Importance of fire safety in the kitchen
Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires, and kitchen fires can quickly spread, causing extensive damage. Therefore, adhering to fire safety measures in the kitchen could be critical in the protection of both property and life.
To minimise the risk of a kitchen fire it’s essential to follow basic fire safety precautions. These include keeping combustible materials a safe distance away from the cooker. While cooking oil on the hob, never leave food unattended, and always have a fire extinguisher nearby. A fire blanket is also useful in smothering the pan until the contents have cooled sufficiently.
Additionally, have a fire evacuation plan in place to make sure all household members know exactly what to do should fire break out.
By taking these steps, you can help to protect your home, your family, and your personal possessions from the devastating effects of a kitchen emergency.
Understanding cooking oil fires
The causes of cooking oil fires are often the result of oils themselves being left unattended. This allows them to overheat and may lead to the oil reaching its combustion point. At this stage it is likely to erupt from the pan and ignite anything combustible nearby, such as tea towels and kitchen units.
They are characterised by fast-spreading, intense flames, along with heavy smoke. These can quickly develop into a larger and more dangerous fire.
Under no circumstances should water or standard extinguishers be used on a burning pan – they would cause the oil to erupt and spread the fire. In addition, never attempt to remove the pan. Serious burns have been known to occur when someone attempts this. Just turn the heat off and use the F class extinguisher or fire blanket, which should be left in place for an hour while the oil cools.
Using the correct fire extinguisher is crucial in this instance – would you know which fire extinguisher to use for cooking oil fires?
Classifications of fire extinguishers
Class A, B, C, D, and F fire extinguishers are the 5 main types of extinguisher. They are designed to put out different types of fires, such as combustible materials, flammable liquids and gases, electrical fires, flammable metals, and cooking oils and fats.
Each type of fire extinguisher is equipped with specific agents effective at extinguishing the particular type of fire it is designed for.
What Type of Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?
Fire extinguishers for cooking oil fires
Class F fire extinguishers are the most suitable extinguisher for cooking oil fires. They are equipped with a special type of foam that forms a crust which smothers the fire and deprives it of oxygen.
You’ll find Class F fire extinguishers in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable and a good fit for different kitchen izes.
Having a Class F fire extinguisher permanently available and easily accessible in your kitchen can greatly increase your chances of successfully putting out a fire in the worse case scenario.
As with all fire safety, the importance of using the right type of fire extinguisher shouldn’t be underestimated. Be prepared for a cooking oil fire by having a Class F fire extinguisher in the kitchen and have it serviced annually to keep yourself and your home safe.
How to Use a Class F Fire Extinguisher
To be best prepared for a kitchen fire, familiarise yourself with the instructions on the fire extinguisher before an emergency occurs. If a fire breaks out, immediately turn off the heat source and call for help.
If you are using the fire extinguisher, stand at a safe distance and aim the extinguisher at the base of the flames, not at the top of the fire. Use a sweeping motion to spray the fire extinguisher across the flames, continuing until they are completely extinguished.
Using a Fire Blanket on a Kitchen Fire
Another useful tool for tackling kitchen fires is a fire blanket. Made of flame-resistant materials, this product can be used to smother fires caused by cooking oils and fats.
When using a fire blanket, you simply place it over the fire, making sure to cover it completely. Leave the blanket in place until the fire is completely extinguished, and the area has cooled down. Do not remove the blanket once it is in place.
Fire blankets are especially useful for small fires, as they can be used to quickly smother the flames before they have a chance to spread. However, it is important to note that fire blankets should not be used on electrical fires or fires caused by flammable liquids.
Having a fire extinguisher in your kitchen could make the difference when keeping you and others safe in the event of a fire. Choosing the right type of extinguisher is equally important.
Class F fire extinguishers are the best choice for kitchen fires caused by cooking oils and fats. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the instructions and practice using the extinguisher so that you are prepared in case of an emergency.
Are you considering having a fire extinguisher installed in your kitchen, restaurant or workplace? Find out more about our fire extinguisher training, services and products or contact us today.
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