Fireproof Blanket Safety Guide: How to Choose and Use for Maximum Protection

A fireproof blanket is an essential safety tool that smothers small fires by cutting off oxygen. This guide explains how fire blankets work, their benefits over extinguishers, proper usage techniques, and key selection criteria for home or workplace safety.

What Is a Fireproof Blanket?

A fireproof blanket is a safety device made from flame-resistant materials like fiberglass or wool treated with fire-retardant chemicals. When placed over a fire, it starves the flames of oxygen, effectively extinguishing small fires without water or chemicals.

Key Benefits of Fireproof Blankets

• Easy to use:No special training required compared to fire extinguishers
• Reusable:Can often be used multiple times if undamaged
• No mess:Leaves no chemical residue like extinguishers
• Versatile:Effective on grease, electrical, and clothing fires
• Safe storage:Doesn't require pressure vessels or maintenance

When to Use a Fireproof Blanket

Your fireproof blanket is ideal for:

• Small kitchen fires (grease, stovetop flames)
• Clothing fires (wrap around a person)
• Electrical equipment fires (when power is off)
• Containing fires until help arrives

Never use it on large, spreading fires or flammable liquid fires covering large areas.

How to Use Your Fireproof Blanket Correctly

1. Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container
2. Hold the blanket with the protective flaps covering your hands
3. Approach the fire carefully with the blanket held in front of you
4. Place or gently lay the blanket over the flames - don't throw it
5. Leave the blanket in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is out
6. Call emergency services if you haven't already

Choosing the Right Fireproof Blanket

Consider these factors when selecting a fireproof blanket:

• Size:Standard sizes are 1m×1m (small fires) to 1.8m×1.8m (larger coverage)
• Material:Fiberglass is most common; wool blends are more flexible
• Certifications:Look for UL, CE, or BS EN 1869 standards
• Storage:Wall-mounted cases provide quick access
• Visibility:Bright colors make them easy to locate in emergencies

Fireproof Blanket Maintenance

To ensure your fireproof blanket remains effective:

• Store in its protective container away from moisture
• Check annually for damage, tears, or discoloration
• Replace if the blanket shows any signs of wear or has been used
• Keep in an easily accessible location near potential fire hazards

Fireproof Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher

While both are valuable, fireproof blankets offer advantages in certain situations:

• Better for small, contained fires where precision is needed
• No risk of spreading grease fires (unlike water extinguishers)
• No chemical residue to clean up afterward
• More intuitive for untrained users

For complete protection, most safety experts recommend having both in your home or workplace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using on large fires that require professional extinguishers
• Removing the blanket too quickly before the fire is completely out
• Storing in hard-to-reach locations
• Using damaged blankets with holes or tears
• Forgetting to protect your hands when placing the blanket

Final Safety Tips

Remember these key points about your fireproof blanket:

• Practice removing it from its container before an emergency
• Teach all household members or coworkers how to use it
• Place it near potential fire sources but not too close to be unreachable
• Combine with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers for complete protection
• When in doubt about fire safety, evacuate and call professionals