In any workplace—especially in commercial kitchens and foodservice environments—fire safety is non-negotiable. Grease, heat, and electrical equipment all pose real risks, making it critical that staff know how to act quickly in the event of a fire. A well-planned fire drill paired with extinguisher training can make the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster.
Why Fire Drills Matter
Fire drills are more than just compliance exercises—they are opportunities to:
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Build muscle memory so staff react instinctively under pressure.
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Identify weaknesses in your current safety plan.
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Reinforce accountability so every team member knows their role.
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Boost confidence in using safety equipment like fire extinguishers.
When employees are trained and practiced, the workplace is better prepared to minimize damage, injuries, and downtime.
Step 1: Educate on Fire Extinguishers
Not all extinguishers are the same. Staff should be familiar with the types available in your facility:
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Class A: For ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth).
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Class B: For flammable liquids (grease, oil, gasoline).
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Class C: For electrical equipment.
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Class K: Specifically designed for commercial kitchen fires.
Every team member should know where extinguishers are located and how to operate them properly.
Step 2: Teach the PASS Technique
A simple and effective way to remember how to use an extinguisher is the PASS method:
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Pull the pin.
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Aim low at the base of the fire.
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Squeeze the handle slowly and evenly.
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Sweep from side to side until the fire is out.
Incorporating hands-on practice during drills helps staff internalize these steps.
Step 3: Run Realistic Drills
Fire drills should simulate real conditions to prepare staff for the unexpected:
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Practice evacuations along designated routes.
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Assign roles (who calls 911, who checks restrooms, etc.).
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Incorporate extinguisher practice when safe and appropriate.
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Evaluate timing and team performance after each drill.
Repeating drills regularly—quarterly or biannually—ensures skills stay sharp.
Step 4: Review and Improve
After each drill, gather feedback from staff. Were exits accessible? Did anyone panic or freeze? Were extinguishers easy to locate? Continuous improvement is key to making fire safety second nature.
Training your staff to respond quickly with extinguishers during a fire drill isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting lives, equipment, and business continuity. With proper education, hands-on practice, and regular drills, your team will be prepared to react swiftly and effectively if a fire ever occurs.