Restaurant Fire Safety Guide And Templates

Protecting Your Business, Staff, and Customers

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Legal Requirements

3. Understanding Fire Types

4. Fire Risk Assessment

5. Fire Prevention Strategies

6. Chemical Safety

7. Fire Safety Equipment

8. Staff Training Program

9. Emergency Response Procedures

10. Record Keeping

11. Insurance Guidelines

12. Fire Safety Plan Template

13. Manager's Daily Checklist

    
    

Introduction

Fire poses the greatest risk to restaurants. Every year, thousands of restaurant fires cause injuries, deaths, and millions in property damage. However, most fires are preventable with proper planning and safety measures.

This guide helps restaurant owners create a complete fire safety program. You'll learn how to prevent fires, respond to emergencies, and protect your business.

Why Fire Safety Matters:

• Protects lives of staff and customers

• Prevents property damage

• Ensures business continuity

• Meets legal requirements

• Reduces insurance costs

Legal Requirements and Compliance 

Fire Safety Laws

Restaurants must follow strict fire safety rules. These laws vary by location but typically include:

National Fire Codes:

• Fire detection systems

• Emergency exits and lighting

• Staff training requirements

• Regular inspections

Local Requirements:

• Building permits for safety equipment

• Fire department inspections

• Health department compliance

• Zoning regulations

Required Documentation

Keep these documents current and accessible:

1. Fire Safety Plan - Your complete safety strategy

2. Emergency Evacuation Plan - Step-by-step evacuation procedures

3. Fire Drill Records - Documentation of practice sessions

4. Equipment Maintenance Logs - Service records for all safety equipment

5. Staff Training Certificates - Proof of employee training

6. Fire Risk Assessments - Detailed hazard evaluations

   
   

Pro Tip: Store copies both on-site and off-site. Digital backups ensure you won't lose important documents in a fire.

Understanding Fire Types and Suppression 

Different fires need different suppression methods. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can make fires worse.

Class A Fires - Ordinary Combustibles

What Burns: Paper, wood, fabric, cardboard Suppression: Water, foam, dry chemical Restaurant Sources: Napkins, wooden furniture, packaging

Class B Fires - Flammable Liquids

What Burns: Grease, oil, gasoline, alcohol Suppression: Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide Restaurant Sources: Cooking oils, cleaning solvents, hand sanitizer

Class C Fires - Electrical

What Burns: Electrical equipment and wiring Suppression: Dry chemical, carbon dioxide (never use water) Restaurant Sources: Fryers, ovens, refrigeration units

Class D Fires - Metals

What Burns: Magnesium, aluminum, sodium Suppression: Special dry powder Restaurant Sources: Rare, but possible in specialized equipment

Class K Fires - Cooking Oils and Fats

What Burns: Animal fats, vegetable oils at high temperatures Suppression: Wet chemical systems Restaurant Sources: Deep fryers, grills, cooking surfaces

Important: Class K fires are the most common in restaurants. Standard extinguishers may not work effectively on hot cooking oils.

Comprehensive Fire Risk Assessment 

A thorough risk assessment identifies potential fire hazards before they cause problems.

Kitchen Areas - Highest Risk

Heat Sources:

• Gas burners and pilot lights

• Deep fryers and grills

• Ovens and broilers

• Coffee machines and warmers

Common Hazards:

• Grease buildup in ventilation systems

• Overheated cooking oils

• Unattended cooking equipment

• Blocked ventilation openings

Electrical Systems

Risk Factors:

• Overloaded circuits

• Damaged electrical cords

• Improper use of extension cords

• Water near electrical outlets

Prevention Measures:

• Annual electrical inspections

• GFCI outlets near water sources

• Proper cord management

• Regular equipment maintenance

Storage Areas

Fire Risks:

• Flammable cleaning chemicals

• Cardboard and paper storage

• Improper chemical mixing

• Poor ventilation

Customer Areas

Potential Hazards:

• Candles and decorative lighting

• Fabric decorations

• Blocked emergency exits

• Overloaded electrical outlets

Assessment Schedule: Conduct assessments every 6 months or after major changes to your restaurant.

Fire Prevention Strategies 

Prevention is always better than emergency response. These strategies significantly reduce fire risk.

Kitchen Fire Prevention

Daily Tasks:

• Clean cooking surfaces after each use

• Empty and clean grease traps

• Wipe down hood filters

• Check pilot lights on gas equipment

Weekly Tasks:

• Deep clean ventilation hoods

• Inspect cooking equipment for damage

• Clean behind and under equipment

• Check fire suppression system

Monthly Tasks:

• Professional hood cleaning (or as required)

• Electrical equipment inspection

• Review fire safety procedures with staff

• Test all fire detection equipment

Proper Cooking Practices

Safe Cooking Guidelines:

• Never leave cooking unattended

• Keep pan handles turned inward

• Maintain proper oil temperatures

• Use timer systems for cooking processes

Equipment Maintenance:

• Regular cleaning schedules

• Professional servicing

• Immediate repair of damaged equipment

• Replacement of worn parts

Housekeeping Standards

Daily Cleaning:

• Remove grease and food debris

• Empty trash containers regularly

• Keep walkways clear

• Store cleaning chemicals properly

Fire Load Management:

• Minimize combustible storage

• Organize inventory properly

• Remove unnecessary cardboard

• Control paper and packaging accumulation

Chemical Safety in Restaurants 

Chemical hazards often go unnoticed but pose significant fire and health risks.

Common Restaurant Chemicals

Cleaning Products:

• Degreasers (often flammable)

• Sanitizers (may contain alcohol)

• Oven cleaners (caustic and flammable)

• Floor strippers (highly flammable)

Food Service Chemicals:

• Cooking oils and fats

• Food-grade lubricants

• Pest control products

• Water treatment chemicals

Chemical Storage Safety

Storage Requirements:

• Use approved fire-resistant cabinets

• Separate incompatible chemicals

• Maintain proper ventilation

• Keep containers sealed and labeled

Incompatible Chemical Combinations:

• Bleach and ammonia (creates toxic gas)

• Acids and bases (violent reactions)

• Oxidizers and flammables (explosion risk)

• Different sanitizers (toxic combinations)

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Every chemical needs an SDS that includes:

• Fire and explosion hazards

• Proper storage requirements

• Emergency response procedures

• Personal protective equipment needs

Best Practice: Keep SDS documents easily accessible to all staff and emergency responders.

Chemical Spill Response

Immediate Actions:

1. Evacuate the area if dangerous

2. Identify the chemical involved

3. Use appropriate cleanup materials

4. Ventilate the area

5. Contact emergency services if needed

   
   

Cleanup Supplies:

• Absorbent materials for different chemical types

• Personal protective equipment

• Neutralizing agents

• Disposal containers

Fire Safety Equipment Guide 

Proper equipment selection and maintenance saves lives and property.

Fire Extinguishers

Types and Applications:

Maintenance Requirements:

• Monthly visual inspections

• Annual professional servicing

• Immediate replacement after use

• Proper mounting and signage

Fire Detection Systems

Smoke Detectors:

• Install in all areas except kitchens

• Test monthly

• Replace batteries annually

• Clean regularly to prevent false alarms

Heat Detectors:

• Best for kitchen environments

• Less prone to false alarms

• Respond to temperature changes

• Require regular calibration

Combination Systems:

• Smoke and heat detection

• Advanced notification features

• Integration with fire suppression

• Remote monitoring capabilities

Automatic Fire Suppression

Kitchen Hood Systems:

• Required over cooking equipment

• Wet chemical suppression for Class K fires

• Automatic activation with manual override

• Professional installation and maintenance

Sprinkler Systems:

• Building-wide protection

• Different types for different areas

• Regular inspection and testing

• Proper maintenance prevents failures

Emergency Lighting and Exit Signs

Requirements:

• Battery backup systems

• Minimum light levels for safe evacuation

• Clear path marking to exits

• Regular testing and maintenance

Placement Guidelines:

• All exit routes clearly marked

• Emergency lighting every 100 feet

• Exit signs visible from all directions

• Battery backup lasting minimum 90 minutes

Staff Training Program 

Well-trained staff are your first line of defense against fires.

Initial Training Requirements

All New Employees Must Learn:

• Fire hazard identification

• Proper use of fire extinguishers

• Evacuation procedures and routes

• Emergency contact procedures

• Chemical safety basics

Fire Extinguisher Training - PASS Method

P - Pull the safety pin A - Aim at the base of the fire S - Squeeze the handle S - Sweep side to side

Practice Requirements:

• Hands-on training with real extinguishers

• Different types of fires demonstration

• Regular refresher sessions

• Documentation of training completion

Evacuation Training

Key Elements:

• Primary and secondary escape routes

• Assembly point procedures

• Assisting customers with disabilities

• Accounting for all personnel

• Communication with emergency services

Role-Specific Training

Kitchen Staff:

• Grease fire response

• Equipment shutdown procedures

• Chemical spill response

• Fire suppression system activation

Floor Staff:

• Customer evacuation assistance

• Fire alarm response

• Emergency communication

• Crowd control techniques

Management:

• Emergency decision making

• Coordination with fire department

• Post-fire incident management

• Insurance claim procedures

Training Schedule

Initial Training: Within first week of employment Refresher Training: Every 6 months Fire Drills: Every 3 months Equipment Training: Annual update

Emergency Response Procedures

Quick, organized response saves lives and reduces property damage.

Immediate Fire Response

Step 1: Discover Fire

• Stay calm and assess the situation

• If fire is small and manageable, use appropriate extinguisher

• If fire is large or spreading, evacuate immediately

Step 2: Alert Others

• Activate fire alarm system

• Shout "FIRE" to alert nearby people

• Call emergency services (911 or local number)

Step 3: Evacuate

• Use nearest safe exit

• Help others evacuate

• Do not use elevators

• Close doors behind you to slow fire spread

Step 4: Account for Personnel

• Meet at designated assembly point

• Take roll call of all staff

• Inform fire department of anyone missing

• Do not re-enter building

Managing Customer Evacuation

Communication:

• Speak clearly and calmly

• Give simple, direct instructions

• Avoid causing panic

• Use multiple staff members to spread message

Special Assistance:

• Help elderly customers

• Assist people with disabilities

• Carry children if necessary

• Clear pathways for wheelchairs

Working with Emergency Services

Information to Provide:

• Exact location and address

• Type and size of fire

• Number of people in building

• Hazardous materials present

• Access routes for emergency vehicles

Support Actions:

• Meet emergency responders at entrance

• Provide building layout information

• Share employee and customer count

• Identify potential hazards

Post-Fire Procedures

Immediate Actions:

• Ensure everyone's safety and medical needs

• Secure the scene

• Contact insurance company

• Document everything with photos if safe

Investigation Cooperation:

• Preserve fire scene

• Provide information to investigators

• Collect witness statements

• Review security footage if available

Record Keeping and Documentation

Proper records prove compliance and help improve safety programs.

Required Records

Fire Safety Plan

• Current contact information

• Equipment locations and specifications

• Evacuation procedures and routes

• Staff responsibilities and assignments

Training Documentation

• Employee training certificates

• Drill participation records

• Competency assessments

• Refresher training schedules

Equipment Records

• Installation dates and specifications

• Maintenance and inspection logs

• Service provider information

• Repair and replacement history

Incident Reports

• Fire events and near misses

• Equipment failures

• Injury reports

• Corrective actions taken

Record Retention

Permanent Records:

• Fire safety plans

• Building permits and certificates

• Insurance policies

• Major incident reports

Temporary Records (3-5 years):

• Training records

• Equipment service logs

• Fire drill reports

• Monthly inspection checklists

Digital Record Management

Benefits:

• Easy backup and sharing

• Quick search capabilities

• Automatic reminders for inspections

• Integration with scheduling systems

Best Practices:

• Regular backups

• Cloud storage for accessibility

• Password protection

• Regular system updates

Insurance Guidelines 

Proper insurance protects your financial investment.

Types of Coverage

Property Insurance:

• Building structure coverage

• Equipment and contents

• Business interruption protection

• Extra expense coverage

Liability Insurance:

• Customer injury claims

• Property damage to others

• Legal defense costs

• Settlement payments

Workers' Compensation:

• Employee injury coverage

• Medical expense coverage

• Wage replacement benefits

• Return-to-work programs

Documentation for Claims

Keep Current Records of:

• Equipment purchase receipts

• Maintenance and service records

• Training documentation

• Safety inspection reports

Post-Fire Documentation:

• Professional damage assessment

• Detailed inventory of losses

• Temporary relocation expenses

• Business interruption costs

Reducing Insurance Costs

Safety Measures That Lower Premiums:

• Modern fire detection systems

• Automatic suppression systems

• Regular staff training programs

• Professional maintenance contracts

Risk Management Programs:

• Regular safety audits

• Employee safety incentives

• Vendor safety requirements

• Emergency response planning

Fire Safety Plan Template 

Restaurant Fire Safety Plan

Business Information:

• Restaurant Name: ________________________

• Address: ________________________________

• Phone Number: ___________________________

• Emergency Contact: _______________________

Fire Safety Officer

Primary Officer:

• Name: __________________________________

• Position: _______________________________

• Phone: _________________________________

• Email: _________________________________

Backup Officer:

• Name: __________________________________

• Position: _______________________________

• Phone: _________________________________

Emergency Contacts

Fire Safety Equipment Inventory

Fire Extinguishers:

Fire Detection Systems:

Fire Suppression Systems:

Evacuation Procedures

Primary Evacuation Route:

• Exit through: ____________________________

• Leads to: _______________________________

Secondary Evacuation Route:

• Exit through: ____________________________

• Leads to: _______________________________

Assembly Point:

• Location: _______________________________

• Person Responsible for Head Count: ________

Special Considerations:

• Customers with disabilities: ______________

• Equipment shutdown procedures: ____________

• Key personnel responsibilities: ___________

Staff Training Log

Fire Drill Log

Risk Assessment Summary

High-Risk Areas Identified:

Control Measures in Place:

Recommendations for Improvement:

Next Assessment Due: ___________________

Annual Review and Updates

Plan Review Date: ______________________

Reviewed By: ___________________________

Changes Made: __________________________

Next Review Date: ______________________

Manager's Daily Fire Safety Checklist 

Opening Procedures

• [ ] Check all fire exits are clear and unlocked

• [ ] Verify emergency lighting is working

• [ ] Test fire alarm system (if required)

• [ ] Inspect fire extinguisher locations

• [ ] Check kitchen suppression system indicator lights

• [ ] Verify emergency contact information is posted

Kitchen Safety Checks

• [ ] Clean grease from cooking surfaces

• [ ] Check ventilation system operation

• [ ] Inspect cooking equipment for damage

• [ ] Verify automatic shut-off systems work

• [ ] Ensure proper storage of flammable materials

• [ ] Check gas connections and pilot lights

Electrical Safety

• [ ] Inspect electrical cords for damage

• [ ] Check for overloaded outlets

• [ ] Test GFCI outlets near water sources

• [ ] Verify proper equipment grounding

• [ ] Look for signs of electrical problems

Chemical Storage

• [ ] Verify proper chemical storage

• [ ] Check container labels and dates

• [ ] Ensure adequate ventilation

• [ ] Confirm SDS sheets are available

• [ ] Inspect spill cleanup supplies

Staff Readiness

• [ ] Confirm all staff know evacuation routes

• [ ] Review emergency procedures if needed

• [ ] Check staff emergency contact information

• [ ] Verify fire safety officer is present

• [ ] Ensure communication devices work

End of Day Procedures

• [ ] Turn off all cooking equipment

• [ ] Clean and secure kitchen area

• [ ] Check all fire doors close properly

• [ ] Verify fire safety systems are armed

• [ ] Secure all chemicals and flammable materials

• [ ] Document any safety concerns

Weekly Tasks

• [ ] Deep clean kitchen hood and filters

• [ ] Test fire detection systems

• [ ] Inspect emergency lighting batteries

• [ ] Review fire safety plan with staff

• [ ] Check fire extinguisher pressure gauges

• [ ] Update training records

Monthly Tasks

• [ ] Professional hood cleaning (if required)

• [ ] Complete fire drill

• [ ] Review and update emergency contacts

• [ ] Inspect fire safety equipment thoroughly

• [ ] Update risk assessment if needed

• [ ] Review insurance coverage

Remember: Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. Regular training, proper equipment maintenance, and constant vigilance protect your restaurant, staff, and customers from the devastating effects of fire.

For questions or additional resources, consult your local fire department, insurance provider, or fire safety professional.