FAQ About Restaurant Fires

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Fleming Island / North Bradford County is your local fire / smoke / soot damage restoration professionals! (904) 290-4040

Fires cause a great deal of property damage to homes and businesses across the country every year. According to a 2017 report provided by the National Fire Protection Association, over a span of 4 years, more than 7,000 fires broke out annually in eating and drinking establishments. Unfortunately, this is one of the greatest risks you face as a restaurant owner. Below is a guide that will help you identify potential hazards, learn essential safety precautions, and understand proper fire restoration procedures.

What to Know Regarding Restaurant Fires

Why do most fires start?

Knowing what causes most restaurant fires will tell you where to focus your prevention efforts. Unsurprisingly, the largest percentage of fires in eating and drinking establishments are cooking-related. Deep fryers and ovens are especially dangerous due to a buildup of combustible oils, and flames can easily spread if they get into the exhaust system and ductwork. Gas leaks and electrical malfunctions, such as faulty wiring, ungrounded outlets, malfunctioning appliances, and worn out cords, also contribute to several fires.

What preventative measures can you take?

Install an automatic fire-suppression system in the kitchen and keep fire extinguishers in various locations around the restaurant. Have the exhaust system cleaned frequently to avoid grease buildup and wipe down cooking areas often. Schedule regular appliance inspections and keep an eye out for frayed cords, broken switch plates, and other hazards. Train your staff to use fire extinguishers correctly and store flammable liquids in well-ventilated spaces.

How should you prepare in the event of a fire?

It’s imperative that you’re prepared for a potential fire by having an action plan in place. You must be ready to shut off the gas and electrical power and have a designated evacuation route to get all staff and customers to safety without creating a more chaotic and dangerous situation. Make sure your employees know how to handle a fire by providing emergency training.

What do you do if there’s a fire in your restaurant?

In the aftermath of a fire, be sure to document all damage for your insurance company. Take photos and videos once it’s safe to go inside and begin the claims process. Then, contact a fire restoration company to begin the cleanup. They’ll have the appropriate equipment for addressing water damage, eliminating the lingering smoke smell, and renovating the property.

If your restaurant has been impacted by fire, trust SERVPRO of South Fleming Island / North Bradford County to get your business back up and running as quickly as possible. They provide prompt and effective fire restoration solutions that focus on minimizing damage and downtime. Backed by more than 50 years of industry experience, this locally-owned company is dedicated to helping home and business owners throughout NEFL successfully overcome unexpected disasters. Call (904) 290-4040 to request an estimate, or visit them online to learn more about their fire restoration services.