Creating A Functional Home

Commercial kitchen fires don't always start in a large rush of flames. In many cases, the fire starts with a small spark in an appliance or along an obstructed channel that's full of grease. By the time anyone spots it, it's already spreading quickly. As a new restaurant owner, the best thing you can do is incorporate a complete kitchen fire suppression system. Here are a few things to think about as you consider that possibility.

Choosing the Right Design

Kitchen fire suppression systems come in many forms, and the best way to ensure that you get an effective system for your kitchen is by requesting a direct consultation with the company you'll be ordering from. This consultation is important, because a technician will evaluate your kitchen's floor plan, the types of equipment you're going to be using and any particular areas of concern. All of those things are factored into the final design to help you get a fire suppression system that will react appropriately according to the types of equipment in the kitchen.

Some systems install directly into the ductwork and use a single liquid suppression agent. Others are more extensive and incorporate dual suppression features, relying on both a chemical agent and a water suppression system. If your kitchen has a combination of low-temperature cooking appliances as well as high-heat oil fryers, these combination systems are ideal.

Considering Your Equipment Needs

Before you choose any system, you need to be objective about evaluating what your kitchen really needs. Consider the types of cooking appliances you'll be using. The more insulation, temperature variations and types of oils you'll be cooking with, the more important it is to narrow down the right suppression system. All of these factors can make fire suppression a greater challenge in your kitchen if you aren't proactive about it.

Along with the full suppression system, you'll also want kitchen-grade fire extinguishers, hose reels and fire blankets to help you protect your kitchen in the event of a fire. Work with a skilled suppression service to host a comprehensive training day for your staff to learn the proper ways to respond to fires in the kitchen. The more educated everyone on your staff is, the safer they will be in the event of a fire.

Commercial kitchens are a prime environment for fire risk. These tips and the support of a fire suppression professional such as the Fire Extinguisher Service Center will help you protect your kitchen.