A fire in your food truck could really put the brakes on your business. Yet, cooking fires are surprisingly common, and 57% of food business fires are caused by cooking equipment. Even with well trained staff and up to date equipment, kitchen fires can happen to anyone at a moments notice. Keep your food truck rolling with these 10 fire prevention tips:
- Install and maintain a UL 300 compliant automatic fire suppression system to minimize fire damage. These systems automatically dispense chemicals to keep the flames under control and also have a manual switch. Service annually.
- Since grease-build up is a major fire risk, exhaust ducts should be professional cleaned at least once per year. Equipment using solid fuels such as wood or charcoal should be cleaned monthly.
- Fryers should be located at least 16 inches from a gas stove, char-grill or other open flame appliance. If unavoidable, an 8-inch stainless steel baffle should be installed between the appliances
- Fryers should be equipped with a high temperature shut-off switch to prevent oil from overheating
- Provide Type K Extinguishers for use on cooking fires, and Type A & B for all other fires
- Maintain clear and uncluttered walkways and storage areas
- Store combustibles — rags, trash, plastics, flammable gases and oils— away from hot surfaces or power sources
- Don’t use extension cords, frayed electrical cords or cracked/broken switch plates
- Keep combustibles away from hot surfaces or power sources
- If you have a wood or charcoal burning oven, remove the ashes daily
Fire is a risk that can’t be completely avoided in the food truck business. These tips will help keep your truck safer. Just remember if a fire does occur, never throw water on a grease fire! Let us know if you have any additional tips or need any assistance with your food truck insurance needs.