Many combustible objects can create flammable situations in your kitchen. Having a fire alarm and extinguisher system in place to detect and put them out quickly is the best way to protect your employees and avoid extensive damage. Here are the main concerns you should know about.

What Are the Primary Fire Risks in Restaurants?

1. Faulty Electrical Components

Damaged and worn electrical cords, wiring, outlets, and receptacles are likely to create sparks that lead to an electrical fire and put workers at risk of electrocution. Additionally, fires are commonly started by overloading circuits, incorrectly using extension cords, and storing combustible materials too close to the electrical panel.

Regularly inspecting cooking appliances and electrical components is the best way to catch problems before they become dangerous. Also, employees should be trained to identify unsafe conditions and cut the power to certain areas when necessary.

2. Improperly Used Appliances

Most restaurant fires tend to start in the kitchen, usually at the ovens and deep fryers. Loose clothing and hair can easily come into contact with an open flame and set off your fire alarms. 

Leaving operating fryers unattended can allow the oil in the tank to get too hot and catch on fire, and forgetting to empty grease traps can lead to flames once more hot grease is added. Similarly, if the oven isn’t regularly cleaned, oil buildup can start a fire.

3. Gas Leaks

When equipment is not properly connected to the gas line, the gas can escape and potentially explode once it comes into contact with the air. This dangerous situation can also occur when turning on older equipment that can no longer support gas flow. For this reason, a restaurant’s fire alarm system should be connected to an automatic suppression system that shuts off the gas and extinguishes the flames to minimize the spread.

If a fire does break out at your restaurant, make sure you have a quality fire alarm system from Western Alarm Services to minimize the damage. For over 40 years, this security system company has provided superior solutions for businesses throughout Lake Havasu City, AZ. Call (928) 855-5608 to speak with one of their qualified consultants, or visit their website to learn more about their fire alarm systems.