What are Class F Fires? Everything You Need To Know

Fires can be grouped into different classes. They are each defined by the type of fuel burned. Class F Fire is one of the most dangerous and complex fires to tackle. This type of fire involves cooking oils and fats which burn at extremely high temperatures. These fires require special handling and some special extinguishing methods to prevent further spread and damage.

Class F fires are a serious hazard. They generally take place in kitchens and food preparation areas. Knowing how they start, how to prevent them and how to extinguish them can save lives and property. By using the proper kitchen safety procedures, regular risk assessments and the right fire fighting equipment, the risk of class F fires can be minimised.

Understanding Class F fires is essential, especially for the ones working in kitchens, food preparation areas and catering businesses. In this guide, we will learn what is type F fire, how one can prevent them and the correct methods for extinguishing them.

What is Class F fire?

Class F fires occur when cooking oil catches fire. Unlike flammable liquids such as petrol, which have blue flash points, cooking oils require temperatures above 340°C to ignite. Due to these high temperatures, traditional fire extinguishers are not effective in putting out Class F fires and can make the situation worse. 

As discussed, class F fires are common in kitchens, restaurants, schools, hospitals, hotels, and catering facilities. They are often caused by negligence, such as

• Overheating oil in a deep fryer
• Leaving pans unattended while cooking
• Not cleaning oil and grease from cooking surfaces
• Allowing oil to build up over time

Since these fires involve hot oil, they burn fiercely and can quickly escalate if not handled correctly.

Preventing A Class F Fire

Prevention is better than cure, and when it comes to class F fires, careful kitchen management is the key to reducing risks. Here are some essential tips.

• Use controlled fryers: These devices automatically maintain a safe temperature, preventing oil from overheating.
• Monitor cooking closely: Never leave the frying pan or deep fat flyers unattended when in use
• Do not overfill the pan with oil: Keep oil levels below one-third of the pant to reduce the risk of spilling
• Clean oil and grease regularly: Residue buildup can ignite if exposed to heat
• Turn off heat sources after use: Open flames and hot surfaces can start fires if left on
• Train kitchen staff: All people should know the risks and safety measures associated with cooking oils and fats

Following these simple steps can minimise the chance of class F fires, making the working areas a safer environment for everyone.

How to Deal With a Class F Fire?

Class F fires burn at extreme temperatures, making them difficult to extinguish, unlike other fires. They cannot be put out with water, carbon dioxide or dry powder extinguishers. These methods can likely worsen the situation. Here are the Correct steps to handle a class F fire safely.

• Turn off the heat source: The first step is to turn off the heat source. This will help stop the fire from spreading further.
• Use a fire blanket for small class F fires: Blankets can be effective. Cover the flames completely to cut off the oxygen supply and extinguish the fire.
• Use a wet chemical fire extinguisher for larger fires: If you’re wondering– what is class F fire extinguisher? The only safe method of extinguishing a class F fire is with a wet chemical fire extinguisher. These wet chemical fire extinguishers contain potassium salt, which tends to cool the flames and form a foam layer over the burning oil, preventing reignition.
• Don’t use water: Throwing water on a class F fire can cause an explosion as the water evaporates instantly upon contact with the hotel, spreading burning oil droplets over a wider area. This can make the fire significant and increase the risk of injuries.
• Evacuate immediately and call the fire brigade: If the fire becomes uncontrollable, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services. Do not take unnecessary risks.

How To Extinguish A Class F Fire?

To successfully put out a fire, one of its three elements must be removed: heat, oxygen or fuel. However, sometimes, due to the intense heat of class F fire,  cooling them below their flashpoint is challenging. 

The best method is to use a wet chemical fire extinguisher, which works by cooling the flames, monitoring the fire to cut off oxygen, and creating a protective barrier to prevent re-ignition. Other types of fire extinguishers, such as CO2, foam, or dry powder, are not suitable for class F fires and can be dangerous to use.

How to Avoid a Class F Fire?

For kitchen owners and managers in business, It is essential to take preventive measures to protect people and property from class F fires. Here are some key steps to follow.

• Conduct regular fire risk assessments to identify potential hazards.
• Install a wet chemical fire extinguisher in a commercial kitchen.
• Fit fire alarms and separation systems in high-risk areas.
• Ensure clear evacuation plans are in place and communicated to staff.
• Train employees on fire safety and proper handling of cooking oils.

Even with the best precautions, it is impossible to eliminate the risk of class F fires. However, maintaining safe kitchen practices and providing regular staff training can minimise the risk and improve overall fire safety.

FAQs

What is the class F fire rating?

Class F fires involve cooking oils and fats and a wet chemical fire extinguisher with an F rating of 75. For example, it is suitable for deep-fat fryers containing up to 75 litres of oil.

What colour is a class F fire extinguisher?

Class F fire extinguishers are yellow. They are specifically designed for kitchen fires and are known as wet chemical extinguishers.

What causes a class F fire?

Class F fire occurs when cooking oil or fat overheats and ignites. Common causes include overheating, deep fryer, living, cooking, unattended and oil spills near heat sources.

Why can’t water be used on a class F fire?

Water causes explosions when used on a class F fire as it instantly turns into steam upon contact with hot. This reaction can spread the fire rapidly and increase the risk of potential injuries.

What is the best way to put out a class F fire?

The safest way to extinguish a class F fire is by using a wet chemical fire extinguisher or a fire blanket. If the fire is too large, evacuate immediately and call the fire brigade. For businesses, investing in fire safety training and ensuring staff are aware of emergency procedures can make all the difference in preventing a fire disaster.

Top Products

CO2 Fire Extinguisher	Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher	Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher	Foam Fire Extinguisher	Water Fire Extinguisher	Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Mechanical Foam Fire Extinguisher	Dry Chemical Powder Fire Extinguisher	30 MA RCCB	Steel Toe Safety Shoes	Black Safety Shoes	Fiber Toe Safety Shoes
Brown Safety Shoes	Composite Toe Safety Shoes	Rubber Safety Shoes	PVC Safety Shoes	DB MCB	AC MCB
Laser Welding Machine	Gmaw Welding Machine	Spot Welding Machine	ARC Welding Machine	Mini Welding Machine	Gas Welding Machine
Portable Welding Machine	CO2 Welding Machine	Automation Welding Machine	SAW Welding Machine	Transformer Welding Machine	Butt Welding Machine
Orbital Welding Machine	Stud Welding Machine	Ultrasonic Welding Machine	Handheld Laser Welding Machine	Rectifier Welding Machine	Projection Welding Machine
Stick Welding Machine	Electro Fusion Welding Machine	Mig Arc Welding Machine	TIG ARC Welding Machine	Led Street Light	100W Street Light