All about fire blankets

What is a fire blanket?

A fire blanket is a woven sheet of fire-resistant material designed to extinguish small fires. Fire blankets are typically made of woven fiberglass and work by smothering the fire and cutting off the oxygen supply. Fire blankets are stored in a box or wall-mounted bag for quick access in the event of a fire.

What is a fire blanket used for?

Fire blankets are typically used to extinguish small fires in or around the kitchen and are particularly useful on Class F fires involving cooking oils. They can also be used on garbage can fires and to extinguish clothing fires. Fire blankets are suitable for use in domestic, commercial and public environments.

However, in recent years, blankets used to extinguish car fires or to isolate fires in electric cars have also begun to appear on the market.

Where should you put a fire blanket?

Fire blankets should be placed in or near the kitchen, but not too close to the fire hazard, as a fire may prevent you from accessing the fire blanket. It is best to mount them on the wall in an easily identifiable location. Fire blankets should be installed as an additional precaution, along with an appropriate fire extinguisher.

Businesses and organizations should install fire blankets on a wall with appropriate fire blanket signage.

What fire blanket do I need in the kitchen or office?

There are 3 sizes of fire blankets (1 x 1 m, 1.2 x 1.2 m, 1.2 x 1.8 m). You need to consider the potential size of the fire, as the fire blanket needs to cover the entire fire to smother and extinguish it. The smaller size may be more suitable for household baking tray or frying pan fires, while a larger size may be needed for commercial kitchen, workshop or clothing fires.

How to use a fire blanket?

To use a fire blanket:

1. Turn off the heat source, if possible.
2. Pull the straps down to release the fire blanket from its container.
3. Wrap the corners of the blanket around your hands to protect them from the fire and place the blanket over the burning object.
4. Leave the blanket in place until the fire goes out and the object cools.

Do fire blankets need to be maintained annually?

In a business or public environment, fire blankets should be put into service when first installed and should be reviewed annually to ensure they are in good condition. The fire blanket should be visually inspected to ensure it is not damaged or worn and that it is clean. The blanket should be replaced in the container in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions so that it can be used quickly if needed.

How functional are fire blankets?

There is no set period of time for which a fire blanket can be used, although it is normal to replace a fire blanket every 7 years from the date of purchase. You should consult the manufacturer's instructions to find out when the blanket should be replaced. If the fire blanket is damaged or has been used to put out a fire, it should be replaced immediately.

In conclusion, fire blankets are essential for personal safety and property protection against small fires. It is crucial to choose the right size, store them in accessible locations, and become familiar with their use. Remember to periodically check the condition of your blanket and replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or after each use in extinguishing a fire. By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure that you are prepared to act quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency. Protect yourself and your loved ones by keeping a fire blanket on hand – one small step for safety, one giant leap for peace of mind.