Restaurant Fires Happen More Often Than You Think

Restaurant Fires

Restaurants in Wisconsin are an integral part of our social lives. We often dine out with our families, friends, and colleagues. However, dining out carries some risks due to the potential hazards of fire. Therefore, fire protection and fire safety are critical concerns for restaurant owners and patrons alike. In this article, we will explore how often restaurants have fires and the measures that restaurant owners can take to minimize the risk of fire. Fires are a common occurrence in restaurants. The National Fire Protection Association NFPA reports that between 2014 and 2018, U. S. fire departments responded to an average of 7, 610 structure fires in eating and drinking establishments per year, resulting in an annual average of 246 million in direct property damage. cooking equipment was the leading cause of these fires, representing almost two-thirds 64% of fires in eating and drinking establishments.

Unattended cooking is the most common reason for restaurant fires, and the fire risk increases when the restaurant is busy. Busy commercial kitchens with multiple cooking stations and appliances, including deep fryers, grills, and ovens, are susceptible to fire hazards. Additionally, flammable liquids, such as cooking oil and cleaning agents, are present in all kitchens, posing a fire risk if not handled and stored appropriately. Lastly, electrical wiring, gas lines, and heating systems can also present a fire hazard if not adequately maintained. Restaurant owners and managers can minimize the risk of fire by implementing fire-safety measures. These measures include installing a fire suppression system, regular inspection and servicing of kitchen appliances, maintaining the ventilation system, and keeping the kitchen clean and organized. A fire suppression system, comprising a sprinkler and nozzle mechanism, can quickly suppress a fire and prevent it from spreading, reducing the risk of injury and property damage. Regular inspection and servicing of kitchen appliances, including range hoods, fryer hoods, and exhaust fans, can reduce the risk of fires caused by grease buildup. Cleaning and organizing the kitchen and cooking appliances can reduce fire hazards and make it easier to manage a fire if it occurs. Maintaining the ventilation system can prevent the buildup of grease and contaminants that can cause kitchen fires. Finally, restaurant owners and managers can provide fire-safety training to their staff, including how to escape in case of a fire, kitchen fire prevention techniques, and basic first-aid skills. The staff can also be taught how to use fire extinguishers and fire-alarm systems properly. In conclusion, restaurant fires are more common than we think, and the potential risks are higher in busy commercial kitchens. However, restaurant owners and managers can minimize the risk of fire by implementing fire-safety measures, including installing a fire suppression system, regular inspection and servicing, maintaining the ventilation system, and providing fire-safety training to their staff. By taking these steps, restaurant owners can ensure that their establishments remain safe and welcoming for their patrons.

-Elite Hood Cleaning Wisconsin