The usual path back to service

  1. Fire department release

    The fire department confirms the fire is out and the building is safe. Ask whether a fire inspection will be required before reopening and what it will check.

  2. Suppression system service

    A discharged hood suppression system must be serviced, recharged and tagged by a qualified contractor before cooking resumes.

  3. Duct and hood cleaning

    Grease and soot in the hood, filters, ductwork and exhaust fan need cleaning. A fire in the duct can leave residue far up the system.

  4. Kitchen and dining cleanup

    Suppression agent, grease-laden smoke and soot are cleaned from equipment, walls, ceilings and the dining room.

  5. Food and supplies

    Food exposed to smoke, heat or suppression agent is generally discarded. Packaging that was opened or porous is suspect.

  6. Health and fire sign-off

    Ask El Paso County Public Health whether an inspection is needed before reopening, and schedule any fire inspection.

Areas grease smoke reaches that are easy to forget

  • Ceiling tiles and the space above a drop ceiling
  • Walk-in cooler gaskets and evaporator coils
  • Ice machine and beverage equipment
  • Dining room light fixtures, ceiling fans and window coverings
  • Booth upholstery and fabric seating
  • HVAC returns and rooftop units that pulled in smoke
  • Point-of-sale terminals and other electronics near the kitchen

Rough timing for a contained hood fire

Every situation differs. Larger fires, structural damage or permits for repairs extend this considerably.

Day of the fire
Fire released, power and gas status confirmed, photos taken, insurer and landlord notified.
Days one to three
Suppression system service scheduled, food discarded and logged, cleaning begins.
Days three to seven
Hood and duct cleaning completed, equipment tested, dining room cleaned.
Before reopening
Inspections completed, staff briefed, menu and supplies restocked.

Questions for the insurer, landlord and contractor

  1. Does my policy include business interruption coverage, and when does the waiting period end?
  2. Is spoiled food and inventory covered, and what records do you need?
  3. Who is responsible for the building's hood and duct under my lease?
  4. Will the cleaning contractor work after hours or overnight to shorten the closure?
  5. Can you provide a written report on the duct cleaning for the fire inspector?

General information for Colorado Springs, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.