The loud sound of a kitchen hood suppression system activating can be jarring, but it’s the sound of safety in action. In that critical moment, the system is doing exactly what it was designed to do: automatically extinguishing a dangerous fire at its source. While the system handles the fire, the actions of you and your staff in the moments during and after activation are crucial for ensuring everyone’s safety and beginning the recovery process efficiently. Knowing the correct emergency kitchen procedure can turn a potentially chaotic event into a managed incident. This guide outlines the essential steps to take when your fire suppression system goes off.
H2: The Immediate Steps in Your Emergency Kitchen Procedure: Evacuate and Call 911
The first rule of any emergency kitchen procedure when a fire system activates is to prioritize human life. Even though the system is handling the flames, you must ensure everyone gets out safely.
- Evacuate Immediately: All staff and customers must evacuate the building calmly and quickly. Use the nearest clear exit and proceed to a pre-designated assembly point a safe distance from the building. Do a head count to ensure everyone is accounted for.
- Call 911: As you are evacuating, call 911. Do this even if the fire appears to be out. The fire department needs to come and inspect the scene to ensure there is no hidden fire extension (e.g., in the ductwork or walls) and to officially declare the area safe. Do not assume a neighbor or a passerby has called.
Never re-enter the building until the fire department has given the all-clear. The wet chemical agent can create a slippery residue, and there may be unseen hazards.
H2: After the Fire Department Leaves: Assessing the Aftermath
Once the fire department has deemed the building safe to re-enter, your emergency kitchen procedure shifts to assessment and recovery. The first thing you will notice is the aftermath of the discharge. The wet chemical agent will have created a soapy, foam-like substance over the cooking appliances, and the floor may be slippery. Do not turn on any appliances. The system is designed to automatically shut off the gas and electrical supply to the cook line, and these should remain off until they are professionally inspected. Assess the extent of the visible damage from the fire itself and the discharge of the agent. Take photos for your insurance claim before any cleanup begins.
H2: Contacting Your Fire Protection and Insurance Companies
The next crucial step in your emergency kitchen procedure is to make two important phone calls.
- Call Your Fire Protection Company: Your fire suppression system has just performed a one-time discharge. It is now empty and will not protect you from another fire. You must call your certified fire protection service provider immediately to schedule an emergency recharge. A technician will need to come to clean the system components, replace the fusible links, recharge the agent cylinder, and re-certify the system. You cannot legally or safely reopen your kitchen until this is done.
- Call Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance agent about the incident as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Provide them with the incident number from the fire department report and the photos you took of the scene. They will guide you on the next steps for documenting damages and losses, including equipment repair/replacement and business interruption coverage.
H2: The Cleanup and Recovery Process
Cleaning up after a wet chemical discharge is a vital part of your emergency kitchen procedure, and it must be done thoroughly. While the agent is non-toxic, it must be completely removed before cooking can resume.
- Wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses.
- Scrape up and dispose of the bulk of the soapy residue.
- Use hot, soapy water and clean cloths to wipe down all affected surfaces, including appliances, countertops, walls, and floors.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining residue.
- Dispose of any open food products that may have been contaminated by the agent or smoke.
- Once your fire suppression system is recharged and a professional has inspected and approved your cooking appliances for use, you can begin the process of reopening.
Conclusion
A fire suppression system activation is a serious event, but a well-practiced emergency kitchen procedure ensures it is manageable. By prioritizing evacuation, alerting the fire department, and promptly contacting your service and insurance providers, you can navigate the situation safely and effectively. While the cleanup and recharge process may cause a temporary disruption, it is infinitely better than the alternative of a full-scale fire. Being prepared turns a potential disaster into a testament to your commitment to safety.
