Are you Managing your Commercial Kitchen Fire Risk?
Causes of Restaurant Fires
According to the NFPA’s most recent study of fires in restaurants, cooking equipment is the leading cause of fires. In addition to cooking equipment, the following round out the top five causes of all restaurant fires.
Statistics from NFPA's Report "Structure Fires in Eating and Drinking Establishments"
Protect Your Commercial Kitchen from Fires
A fire can devastate your business, leading to lost revenues and even permanent closure. Take steps to prevent fires and minimize the damage.
- Install an Automation Fire-Suppressions System: These systems automatically dispense chemicals to suppress the flames and also have a manual switch.
- Make Equipment Maintenance a Priority: All electrical equipment should be inspected and maintained on a regular basis.
- Have Your Exhaust System Inspected: The NFPA Fire Code calls for quarterly inspections of systems in high-volume cooking operations.
- Keep Portable Fire Extinguishers as Backup: You’ll need a Class K extinguisher for kitchen cooking appliance fires involving grease, fats and oils that burn at high temperatures.
- Training for Staff: Teach employees fire-safety protocol, evacuation procedures, and the use of fire-safety and kitchen equipment.
- Be Prepared to Have an Emergency Plan: If a fire breaks out in your restaurant, your staff must take control of the situation and lead customers to safety.