By installing working fire extinguishers, you can equip your staff with the fire protection tools they need to address other possible causes of fire inside the restaurant, such as electrical problems and unattended smoking items.
If you own or run a restaurant in Maryland, you should brush up on your fire protection safety measures in case a fire should break out. Fires are always a potential threat due to all of the open flames and the presence of flammable materials such as grease and cooking oils. If a grease fire should happen, the standard fire extinguishers and sprinklers you keep active in your kitchen might not be enough to put the fire out.
Fire Protection and Suppression
Automated Systems: Since water can’t fully extinguish a grease fire, you may have to rely on other measures. To that end, consider installing clean agent fire suppression systems in your restaurant. Chemicals are more effective than water when it comes to fighting a grease fire, and these chemicals can either be wet or dry. It doesn’t matter which one you choose, as both will get the job done.
Exhaust Systems: Fumes and heat are two of the most dangerous elements of any fire. Make sure your exhaust systems are properly aligned to vent excess fumes and heat to the outside. But remember, any vent hood needs to be kept clean to prevent grease buildup.
Extinguisher Installation: Automated systems are huge boons for your firefighting solutions, but don’t forget that your employees can help too. By installing working fire extinguishers, you can equip your staff with the tools they need to address other possible causes of fire inside the restaurant, such as electrical problems and unattended smoking items.
Prepare Your Employees
Your employees will serve as the first line of defense, at least until firefighters can arrive. Have all of your workers remain vigilant in case of any fires, and have them do the following:
- Clean everything up at closing time, and keep papers, linens, and boxes away from potential sources of heat.
- Seal up and store cooking liquids properly, and make sure cleaning supplies are only used in well-ventilated areas. Don’t allow spills to linger, either.
Create a Fire Protection Plan
Even with the best preparations in place, you can’t predict when a fire will start. When a fire does start, keep these pointers in mind for your fire protection plan:
- Never use water to put out a grease fire!
- Use the PASS Technique – Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the fire’s base, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
- Know where all of the emergency exits are and don’t block them.
- Implement an emergency evacuation plan and teach everyone on every shift what to do and where to go.
- The training should also include refreshers on how to properly use the fire extinguishers, as well.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience with design, installation, service, and inspection of residential and commercial fire protection systems. We service clients throughout the Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480 or contact us online. For more fire safety tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.