Safety should be a top priority in your new restaurant. This type of business is at a higher risk of fire than others due to the equipment you’ll be using. There are many types of fire extinguishers available, each option meant for a different class or category of fire. To help you protect your employees, customers, and property, here are a few types of extinguishers you may want to include in your safety design.

Fire Extinguishers to Keep in a Restaurant

1. Class B

These extinguishers are for use on flammable liquids and gases. If your restaurant uses propane, kerosene, or lighter fluid for a charcoal grill, you may experience this type of fire.

These devices work by depriving the flames of oxygen, thus preventing them from releasing combustible vapors and spreading. 

2. Class C

These are used for electrically energized fires, which are fueled by active power sources. These types of fires may occur when the electrical wiring in your building short-circuits or is faulty. It may also occur when kitchen appliances overload an outlet or light fixture power cords become frayed.

These extinguishers work by smothering the flames with carbon dioxide, since water-based solutions aren’t safe for use on electricity. The CO2 is also extremely cold, which eliminates the fire’s heat.

3. Class K

Class K extinguishers are for kitchen fires involving flammable liquids. These fires may be fueled by grease, oil, or fat. Cooking fires are unique because they burn very hot, making Class B fire suppression systems ineffective, as flames could reignite.

These specialized extinguishers use wet chemicals that contain alkaline mixtures. The foam coats the cooking area to cool it down and choke out the oxygen, preventing the spread of flames.

Fire Protection Specialists will set up your new kitchen so it’s up to fire codes in La Crosse and Bangor, WI. Their certified technicians keep up with the latest inspection standards for the International Fire Code. They will provide fire extinguishers and smoke detectors to protect your property and customers. Learn more about their fire protection services online and call (800) 658-9463 to schedule an appointment.