Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

Which feature is critical in fire extinguishers for kitchen use?

1. Color-coded handles

2. Regulatory compliance marks

3. Effective against grease fires

4. Rechargeable after use

The correct answer is: Effective against grease fires

For kitchen use, fire extinguishers must be effective against grease fires, which are common in cooking areas where oils and fats are heated. Grease fires burn at high temperatures and require specific firefighting agents to extinguish them safely without exacerbating the situation. Fire extinguishers suitable for kitchen environments typically contain Class K agents, designed for flammable liquids such as cooking oils. Selecting an extinguisher that is effective against these types of fires is crucial for ensuring the safety of the kitchen space and for minimizing potential damage and injury. Other features, while important for general safety, do not specifically address the unique fire risks associated with cooking. For instance, color-coded handles may help identify different types of extinguishers but do not provide functionality against specific fire types. Regulatory compliance marks are vital for overall safety regulations but do not indicate suitability for kitchen use. Rechargeability after use is an important factor for maintenance but does not impact the effectiveness of an extinguisher in combating grease fires at the time of an emergency.