The most important factor when it comes to the fire protection of any restaurant is the extinguishing system that is installed in all kitchen areas. Cooking grease and oil can create Class K fires and only be extinguished effectively through the use of approved Class K fire extinguishers. These are normally the highly regarded ones found in most restaurants.

Why install Fire Extinguishers in kitchen

It is essential for restaurants to always have the right fire extinguishers installed in their kitchens in order to effectively protect the general safety of the business and the property itself.

However, it should be noted that sometimes due to the fast growth rate of this type of product, restaurant owners tend to disregard its basic facts and requirements before purchasing it. This is often done in an effort to lower the costs of purchasing it. At the same time make it more convenient for them to install it without taking much time. While there are certain things that should be taken into consideration, most of these are unnecessary, as they may pose little or no threat at all.

Fire Extinguishers For Kitchen Fire Safety Needs

The first thing that restaurant owners need to know about fire extinguishers is that they are specifically designed for their specific usage. It may come in handy in different situations like cooking, grease melting, electrical problems, etc but it is not fit for all.

Another vital thing that needs to be considered before buying one for the kitchen is that it should be serviced and stored properly so that it does not pose any threat to the general safety of the kitchen. While there is nothing to worry about as long as the appliance is kept clean, regularly cleaning it will ensure that it is working efficiently.

Classes of Fire Extinguishers

There are three basic classes of fire extinguishers which include the standard k-class, super K-class and NACSA approved commercial fire extinguishers. Most of the restaurants use the standard k-class fire extinguishers which come in handy in cooking oil fires. The main reason behind this is that they are not very powerful compared to the super and NACSA approved ones. On the other hand, cooking oil can still be a fiery liquid and requires a more powerful extinguisher to put out the fire.

Next, there are the standard class k extinguishers. As its name implies this class contains no flammable liquids which are why it is suitable for grease fires that cause no damage. This class also contains minimal parts which make them more durable compared to the super and NACSA approved classes. This is what makes it a top choice for many people who have small kitchens which do not require high power or fire extinguishers to get rid of small kitchen fires.

Gel and CO2 Fire Extinguishers

There are specific types for different purposes. For example, gel fire extinguishers can be used for grease fires, lamp flames, and lamp coals. There are also those with a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher which can be used for electrical fires, candle flames, and petrol fires. You can get commercial kitchen fire extinguishers to suit different needs and purposes. It is best that you know your needs before you buy one.

Check Local Fire Department:

Another option that is available is to check with your local fire department to see which type of fire extinguishers are available in your area. Some areas may have more than one type of fire extinguisher for your kitchen. You can also go and visit your local hardware store and check on what the options are there. Make sure that you ask the staff about the pros and cons of each one so you will have an idea which is the better option. Also, ask them about the different options of fire extinguishers such as for gas fires and electrical fires. Compare the pros and cons of the kitchen fire extinguishers that you choose for your kitchen so you will have a clear picture of which is the right one for your kitchen.

For restaurants, having fire extinguishers is a must-have. There are different fire extinguishers for different types of fires. For instance, there are those for grease fires that have no fluid release, and these are called non-fluid extinguishers.

Types and uses

For electrical fires, there are wet chemical extinguishers which are the ones for restaurants since they have no fluid release. However, for wood-burning fires, there are fire extinguishers like the wet chemical fire extinguishers. The extinguishers for restaurants should not only have safety features but should also be easy to use so that you do not waste your time when you are using them.