When it comes to fire safety, having the right tools at your disposal can make all the difference. While fire extinguishers are commonly used to combat small fires, there’s another lesser-known hero in fire safety—fire blankets. In this blog, we’ll explore what fire blankets are, how they work, and situations where using a fire blanket might be a better choice than a traditional fire extinguisher.
What is a Fire Blanket?
A fire blanket is a flame-resistant sheet made from materials like fiberglass or wool treated with fire-retardant chemicals. When properly used, a fire blanket can smother small fires by cutting off the oxygen supply, effectively extinguishing the flames.
How Fire Blankets Work
The principle behind a fire blanket is simple yet effective. When a fire breaks out, you can quickly place the fire blanket over the flames or wrap it around a person whose clothing is on fire. The blanket starves the fire of oxygen, causing it to smother and extinguish.
When to Use a Fire Blanket Instead of a Fire Extinguisher
While fire extinguishers are versatile and can be used for various types of fires (depending on the class of extinguisher), there are scenarios where a fire blanket might be a better choice:
Kitchen Fires: Grease fires in the kitchen can spread rapidly and are often difficult to control with a fire extinguisher. A fire blanket can safely smother a small grease fire on a stovetop by cutting off the oxygen supply.
Clothing Fires: If a person’s clothing catches fire, wrapping them in a fire blanket can quickly extinguish the flames and prevent serious burns. This is especially important in areas where using a fire extinguisher might be risky or impractical.
Electrical Fires: Fire blankets are safe to use on electrical fires involving small appliances or electrical cords. They can smother the fire without conducting electricity or causing further damage.
Limited Space or Visibility: In confined spaces where using a fire extinguisher may be challenging due to poor visibility or limited maneuverability, a fire blanket provides a straightforward and effective solution.
Preventing Fire Spread: Fire blankets can be used to contain small fires and prevent them from spreading while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
How to Use a Fire Blanket Safely
Using a fire blanket is straightforward, but it’s essential to follow these steps for maximum effectiveness and safety:
Remove the Blanket: Remove the fire blanket from its packaging or container. Hold it by the corners or handles (if provided).
Cover the Fire: Carefully place the fire blanket over the flames, starting from the near edge and moving towards the far edge to prevent the fire from spreading.
Leave in Place: Leave the blanket in place for several minutes to ensure the fire is completely smothered and cooled down.
Do Not Remove Immediately: After extinguishing the fire, do not remove the blanket immediately. Allow it to cool down naturally to avoid reignition.
Fire blankets are a valuable addition to any home or workplace’s fire safety toolkit. They provide a quick and effective way to suppress small fires and protect against potential hazards like clothing fires or kitchen mishaps. While fire extinguishers have their place, knowing when to use a fire blanket can be crucial in certain situations where safety and simplicity are paramount. Consider adding a fire blanket to your fire safety plan and equip yourself with the knowledge to respond effectively in the event of a fire emergency.
