Restaurant Fires Can Cause Heavy Losses

Learn How to Protect Your Investment
Fire Prevention Is Priceless

Statistics from USFA (US Fire Administration) show that 91% of cooking fires are small, confined fires with limited damage. What is “limited damage?”

The report goes on to say that an estimated 5,900 restaurant fires occur annually resulting in approximately 75 injuries and $172 million in property damage. Given these numbers, that’s an average of $32,542 PER fire. However this number does not take into effect:

• Restaurant Closure – time and profits lost (during the fire, after the fire and repair time)
• The stress of having to deal with the authorities, file an insurance claim, wait for it to be approved, hire contractors to fix the damage
• The damage to your brand caused by the perception that your restaurant is not safe
• Damage to staff and subsequent lawsuits
• The list goes on….

So “limited damage” is really a relative term, isn’t it?

Bottom Line: Fire Prevention is priceless.

Safety Measures Recommended to Reduce the Risk of Fire Damage

• Obtain a fire safety inspection by a reputable fire protection company. Based on the report, take the required action to have compliant/operational fire suppression systems and the correct type of fire extinguishers in place for your facility.
• Training – invest in a safety program and safety training for your staff by an experienced fire protection company. Did You Know? OSHA estimates that companies that implement effective safety programs can expect reductions of 20% or greater in injury and illness rates, as well as a return of $4 to $6 for every $1 invested in the programs.
• Conduct regular fire system checks to ensure the fire protection equipment is in good working order. At a minimum have fire extinguishers checked annually by a fire protection company and up-to-date certification tags in place.
• Have exhaust checked for grease build up – according to Restaurant.org/Fire-Prevention-101, “The NFPA Fire Code calls for quarterly inspections of systems in high-volume operations and semiannual inspections in moderate-volume operations. Monthly inspections are required for exhaust systems serving solid-fuel cooking equipment, like wood- or charcoal-burning ovens.”
• BE PREPARED. Have regular fire drills to ensure staff is well trained on what to do in an emergency. Not only will it reduce liability and damage, but it could also save lives.

There is no way to guarantee a fire will never occur but being prepared and having the correct fire safety equipment in place with a staff that knows how to operate it, can significantly reduce a restaurant owner’s liability, loss of down time, property and personal damage.

Working with an experienced and reputable fire protection company will ensure the right equipment is in the right place and is properly maintained, should it be needed. In addition, having a trusted partner, like Fire Ranger, for your fire safety and protection needs adds the benefits of not having to know it all. Fire Ranger has been in the fire safety and protection business since 1989 and has been instrumental in protecting 1,000s of restaurants from fires. Our trained staff will be able to provide insight and training and ensure your restaurant is compliant with the relevant state and city laws. Contact the Fire Ranger Team for more at (954) 566-5430 or online at www.FireRanger.com.