The best type of fire extinguisher to keep near your stove/cooktop area is one that is rated for Class B and Class C fires. Class B fires involve flammable liquids like oil, grease, gasoline, or alcohol, which can be common hazards in a kitchen. Class C fires involve electrical equipment, which is another potential risk in the vicinity of a stove or cooktop.
Therefore, the most suitable fire extinguisher for the kitchen is an ABC fire extinguisher. ABC fire extinguishers are multipurpose extinguishers designed to handle Class A, Class B, and Class C fires, making them versatile and effective for various types of emergencies.
Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. While these materials may not be common around the stove area, it's good to have an ABC extinguisher to cover all potential fire hazards in the kitchen.
When selecting an ABC fire extinguisher for your kitchen, consider the following:
Size: Choose a size that is manageable and easy to use. A common size for home use is a 2.5 or 5-pound extinguisher, which should provide enough firefighting capacity for most kitchen fires.
Easy access: Mount the fire extinguisher in a visible and easily accessible location near the stove or cooktop. Make sure it's not too close to the heat source to avoid potential damage or risk of it being inaccessible during a fire.
Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the fire extinguisher to ensure it is in good working condition. Check the pressure gauge, seals, and look for any signs of damage or leakage. If the extinguisher is rechargeable, get it recharged after use or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Training: Ensure that everyone in your household knows how to use the fire extinguisher correctly. Familiarize yourself with the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side.
Additional fire safety measures: Along with the fire extinguisher, it's a good idea to have a fire blanket in the kitchen as well. A fire blanket can be used to smother small pan fires effectively and is particularly useful for grease fires.
Remember, while a fire extinguisher is a valuable tool to have in case of an emergency, your first priority in the event of a fire is to ensure everyone's safety. If a fire becomes too large to handle or you are unsure about using the extinguisher, evacuate the area immediately and call the emergency services.