Fire Safety
Fire Safety Tips for Commercial Kitchens
A single spark or grease flare up can lead to a devastating kitchen fire. Keep your restaurant safe with these key fire prevention practices recommended by HoodOps and the NFPA-96 standard.
Prevention Starts with Maintenance
Top Causes of Kitchen Fires and How to Prevent Them
Most commercial kitchen fires are preventable. With consistent cleaning, staff training, and the right equipment, you can avoid costly damage and downtime. At HoodOps, we help restaurant owners reduce risk through proper maintenance and NFPA-96 compliance.
1. Grease Buildup
Grease accumulation in exhaust ducts, fans, and filters is the leading cause of restaurant fires. Schedule regular professional hood cleaning to prevent flare ups and airflow restriction.
2. Poor Equipment Maintenance
Exhaust fans and ductwork should be inspected regularly for worn belts, leaks, or obstructions that can trap grease and heat.
3. Untrained Staff
Ensure all kitchen staff know how to operate fire suppression systems and understand what to do in case of a grease fire, never use water!
Stay Code-Compliant and Prepared
Fire Safety Best Practices
Professional hood and vent cleaning should occur every 3–6 months depending on cooking volume and fuel type.
All commercial kitchens should have an automatic wet-chemical fire suppression system installed and tested annually.
Grease fires require Class K extinguishers, keep them clearly marked and accessible to all staff members.
Conduct fire safety training at least twice a year. Staff should know how to trigger suppression systems and safely evacuate.
Check for vibration, grease leaks, or airflow issues. A malfunctioning fan increases fire risk and heat retention.
Keep dated reports and certificates from each cleaning to prove compliance during inspections and insurance reviews.
Keep Your Kitchen Fire-Safe Year-Round
Let HoodOps perform a full hood and vent inspection to ensure your system meets fire code and operates safely. Serving Detroit and surrounding cities within 50 miles.