Class F Fire Extinguisher Guide: Stay Safe from Oil & Fat Fires
- September 30, 2025
In kitchens, the fire is quite common. At home, in hotels, or in restaurants, one mistake can turn hot oil into a big fire. These are called Class F fires, and they are very dangerous. Normal fire extinguishers don’t work in these situations. If you throw water, the fire only spreads faster. That is why you must know about Class F fires and the right extinguisher to use.
What Is Class F Fire?
Class F fire means fire caused by cooking oils and fats. You see it in frying pans, deep fryers, or in commercial kitchens. Oils heat up fast, and once they catch fire, they burn at a very high temperature. A normal extinguisher cannot control them. For this reason, Class F fires require a special solution.
Common Causes of Class F Fires
Class F fires usually start in kitchens. The following are some of the most common reasons for this:
- Leaving hot oil uncovered on the stove or fryer.
- Overflowing oil on burners or heating parts.
- Using old oil that heats unevenly.
- Not cleaning the grease buildup.
- Cooking food in deep oil and overheating it.
Why Class F Fires Are Dangerous
Oil fires are not like wood or paper fires. Oil burns at higher temperatures, and once it catches fire, it is very hard to stop. Pouring water is the worst thing to do. The water sinks, boils instantly, and splashes the burning oil around. That spreads fire all over the kitchen. This is why Class F fires require extra care and the correct extinguisher.
What Type of Fire Extinguisher Is Used for Class F Fires?
You should use a Class F fire extinguisher, also known as a wet chemical fire extinguisher, to extinguish these fires. This is why wet chemical extinguishers are trusted for kitchens. No other extinguisher works properly on this fire type.
Here’s how it works:
- It sprays a fine mist of chemicals that lands on the oil.
- A layer forms on top of the hot oil and cuts off oxygen.
- The oil cools down, so it cannot start burning again.
Do’s and Don’ts During a Class F Fire
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Turn off the gas or electricity if possible. | Never pour water on oil fires. |
| Use a Class F extinguisher quickly. | Don’t try to lift or move the burning pan. |
| Call the fire service if the fire is not under control. | Don’t use powder, foam, or CO₂ extinguishers. |
Kanex Class F Fire Safety Solutions
At Kanex Fire Solutions Limited, we know how dangerous kitchen fires can be. That’s why we offer Class F fire extinguishers designed specifically for oil and fat fires. Our wet chemical fire extinguishers are easy to handle and tested for both small kitchens and big commercial setups.
We also help with guidance on where to place them, how to maintain them, and train people so they don’t panic during a fire. Whether it’s a restaurant, hotel, or even your home kitchen, Kanex has the right solution for you.
Conclusion
A kitchen fire does not give you much time. One wrong step and the whole place can burn. Having a Class F fire extinguisher is the best way to stay safe. It gives you the right tool for oil and fat fires, where normal extinguishers fail.
At Kanex Fire Solutions Limited, we always remind you — don’t wait for an accident to happen. Keep the right extinguisher ready in your kitchen. It is a small step that can save your home, your business, and the people around you.
