Fire Suppression Blankets: Your Essential Guide to Safety and Usage
Summary:Fire suppression blankets are vital safety tools that smother small fires by cutting off oxygen. This guide explains how they work, when to use them, proper techniques, and maintenance tips for optimal fire safety.
What Are Fire Suppression Blankets?
Fire suppression blankets are specially designed safety devices made from fire-resistant materials like fiberglass or wool. You use them to extinguish small fires by placing the blanket over flames to starve them of oxygen. These blankets are essential for kitchens, workshops, and laboratories where small fires might start.
When Should You Use a Fire Suppression Blanket?
You should reach for a fire suppression blanket in these situations:
- Small grease fires in the kitchen (never use water!)
- Clothing fires on a person
- Small electrical fires (after power is turned off)
- Fires in trash cans or small containers
Remember: Never use fire suppression blankets on large fires or gas fires. For these, use a proper extinguisher or call emergency services.
How to Properly Use Your Fire Suppression Blanket
Follow these steps for safe and effective use:
- Pull the blanket from its container by the tabs (never by the blanket itself)
- Hold the blanket in front of you like a shield to protect your hands and arms
- Place the blanket gently over the fire - don't throw it
- Leave the blanket in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is out
- Don't peek! This could let oxygen back in
Choosing the Right Fire Suppression Blanket
When selecting a fire suppression blanket, consider:
- Size:Standard sizes are 1m x 1m or 1.2m x 1.2m - choose based on your potential fire risks
- Material:Fiberglass is most common, but some use wool or other fire-resistant fabrics
- Certification:Look for blankets meeting EN 1869 or similar safety standards
- Storage:Choose easy-to-access containers that protect the blanket from dust
Maintenance and Care Tips
To keep your fire suppression blanket ready for emergencies:
- Inspect monthly for damage or contamination
- Store in an easily accessible location away from potential fire sources
- Replace if the blanket shows any signs of wear, holes, or contamination
- Most manufacturers recommend replacement every 5-7 years, even if unused
Why Fire Suppression Blankets Are Essential Safety Tools
Fire suppression blankets offer unique advantages:
- No chemical residue like some extinguishers leave behind
- Simple to use with minimal training required
- Effective on grease fires where water would make things worse
- Compact and easy to store in high-risk areas
- Reusable if not damaged during use
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with simple devices like fire suppression blankets, people make errors:
- Storing them behind other items where they're hard to reach quickly
- Using them on fires that are too large (blankets work best on contained fires)
- Removing the blanket too soon - fires can reignite
- Using damaged or contaminated blankets that won't perform properly
Fire Suppression Blankets vs. Extinguishers
While both are important, fire suppression blankets have specific advantages:
| Feature | Blankets | Extinguishers |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small contained fires | Larger or spreading fires |
| Training needed | Minimal | Moderate |
| Maintenance | Visual inspection | Pressure checks, refills |
| Cleanup | None | Can be messy |
Final Safety Reminders
While fire suppression blankets are excellent tools, remember:
- Your safety comes first - if a fire grows beyond a small, contained area, evacuate
- Have multiple safety options available (blankets, extinguishers, alarms)
- Practice using your blanket so you're prepared in an emergency
- Teach all household members or coworkers where blankets are stored and how to use them
Fire suppression blankets are simple yet powerful tools that belong in every home and workplace. By understanding their proper use and limitations, you'll be better prepared to handle small fire emergencies safely and effectively.
