Most people think restaurant fires originate in the kitchen, such as from a broken gas line or a left-on oven. This is often the case, but kitchen fires also can start from multiple other sources throughout the business.
Therefore, it is the duty of the restaurant owner to make sure fire risks remain under control throughout the establishment. Doing so can help reduce the chances of a potentially-expensive restaurant insurance claim.
Non-Kitchen Restaurant Fire Risks
Restaurants are made up of more than just their kitchens. Therefore, flammable objects and fire risks litter the establishment. It is best for owners to be aware of non-kitchen fire risks. These may include:
- Smoking-related fires
- Arson risks
- Fires from improper electrical wiring or lighting
- The use of flammable decoration in the establishment
- Improper serving practices
- The use of flammable raw materials, such as in cleaning practices
With proper care, these items likely pose very little risk to the business. However, neglectful practices, including going without insurance, may increase these risks.
Restaurant Insurance for Fires
As fire risks may threaten any part of the business, restaurateurs should carry appropriate insurance. Should a fire cause damage or destruction, the policy might help pay to repair the business and sustain its operating costs.
Property coverage usually contains fire provisions, and can help the restaurant rebuild or repair damage. Owners should make sure the policy covers all the buildings belonging to them. Contents coverage often can replace all or most of the contents of the restaurant. Policyholders should make sure they have appropriate coverage levels to adequately reflect the value of the contents.
Restaurant owners should also take note of any exclusions of certain pieces of property in their insurance policies. The policies may not cover every type of structure or content of the restaurant. Owners may need to buy extra insurance as a result.
Preventing Fire Risks
At times, despite having strong insurance, a fire might devastate a restaurant. This may mean that damage might exceed even the highest policy limits. Therefore, one of the best ways to avoid fire risks is to take comprehensive steps to avoid them.
Restaurants can often have comprehensive fire safety inspections from professional organizations. These inspections can often point out potential risks for fires throughout the business. They might also give the owner tips to mitigate these damages.
By taking proper steps to ensure their restaurant, owners can reduce most fire risks, including those not from a kitchen.
Need restaurant insurance? Call Buschbach Insurance Agency, Inc. at 708-423-2350 for a fast, free policy quote.
Also check out these articles for more restaurant tips:
What to do After Restaurant Property Damage
Diagnosing Risks in Your Restaurant