Fire Extinguisher Blankets: Your Essential Fire Safety Guide
Summary:Fire extinguisher blankets are crucial safety tools for smothering small fires. This guide explains how they work, when to use them, proper techniques, and maintenance tips to keep your home or workplace safe.
What Are Fire Extinguisher Blankets?
Fire extinguisher blankets, often called fire blankets, are safety devices made from flame-resistant materials. They smother small fires by cutting off oxygen supply. Unlike traditional extinguishers, they leave no mess and are perfect for kitchen fires, lab accidents, or small electrical fires.
When Should You Use a Fire Blanket?
Fire extinguisher blankets work best on:
- Small kitchen fires (grease or oil fires)
- Clothing fires
- Small electrical fires
- Laboratory fires
Never use them on large or spreading fires. For those situations, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
How to Properly Use a Fire Blanket
Follow these steps for effective use:
- Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container
- Hold the blanket by the corners with your hands protected
- Place the blanket gently over the flames
- Leave it in place until completely cooled
- Never remove the blanket to check - this could reignite the fire
Fire Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher
While both are essential, fire extinguisher blankets have advantages:
| Feature | Fire Blanket | Fire Extinguisher |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small contained fires | Larger fires |
| Cleanup | Minimal | Extensive |
| Training needed | Minimal | Moderate |
Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher Blanket
Consider these factors when purchasing:
- Size:Standard sizes are 1m×1m or 1.2m×1.2m
- Material:Look for fiberglass or wool with fire-resistant coating
- Certification:Ensure it meets safety standards like BS EN 1869
- Ease of access:Quick-release containers work best
Maintenance and Care
To keep your fire extinguisher blanket ready:
- Store in an easily accessible location
- Check monthly for damage or moisture
- Replace if the protective coating is damaged
- Replace every 5-7 years even if unused
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People often make these errors with fire blankets:
- Using on large fires (blankets are for small, contained fires only)
- Throwing instead of placing gently
- Removing too quickly before complete cooling
- Storing near potential fire sources
Where to Install Fire Blankets
Strategic locations include:
- Kitchens (within reach but not next to stove)
- Workshops
- Science labs
- Near electrical panels
- Garages
Mount them at shoulder height for easy access during emergencies.
Fire Blanket Safety Tips
Remember these key points:
- Always turn off the heat source if safe to do so
- Protect your hands when using the blanket
- Never wrap a person in a burning blanket - have them stop, drop, and roll
- Practice using your blanket before an emergency occurs
Fire extinguisher blankets are simple yet powerful tools that belong in every home and workplace. By understanding their proper use and maintenance, you'll be better prepared to handle small fire emergencies safely and effectively.
