Which of the following must an automatic extinguishing system for hoods do?

An automatic extinguishing system for hoods is designed to enhance fire safety in commercial kitchens by effectively suppressing potential fires that can occur in cooking equipment. For the system to function correctly and prevent the spread of fire, it must execute several critical actions.

Shutting off the gas is vital because it stops the fuel supply to the cooking appliances, thereby preventing further combustion and reducing the risk of a flare-up after the extinguishing system has activated.

Turning off the exhaust fans is equally important, as these fans, if left running, could draw the fire and smoke out of the hood area, potentially spreading it throughout the kitchen or building. By shutting off these fans, the system contains the fire where it originated and allows for more effective suppression.

Closing the dampers in the exhaust system plays a crucial role in preventing smoke and heated gases from escaping into other areas of the building. This containment helps protect other parts of the kitchen and the overall structure from fire damage and increases the effectiveness of the extinguishing agent used in the hood.

Therefore, all these actions – shutting off the gas, turning off the exhaust fans, and closing the dampers – are necessary for the effective operation of an automatic extinguishing system in kitchen hoods, making the correct answer comprehensive