Fire Dept Blankets: Essential Safety Gear for Emergency Protection

Fire department blankets are specialized safety tools designed for emergency situations. This guide explains their uses, materials, proper handling, and why they're crucial for home and industrial safety. Learn how these blankets differ from regular fire blankets.

What Are Fire Dept Blankets?

Fire department blankets, often called fire blankets, are flame-resistant sheets made from materials like fiberglass or wool treated with fire-retardant chemicals. Unlike regular blankets, these can withstand extreme heat up to 900°F (482°C). Fire dept blankets come in various sizes, typically 3'x3' to 6'6'x6'6', with reinforced edges for durability.

Key Uses of Fire Dept Blankets

1. Small Fire Suppression:Smother grease fires, electrical fires, or clothing fires by cutting off oxygen supply. Fire dept blankets work best on Class A (ordinary combustibles) and Class B (flammable liquids) fires.

2. Personal Protection:Wrap around yourself or others to escape through flames. The blanket's material reflects radiant heat while trapping breathable air.

3. Emergency Shelter:In wildfire situations, fire dept blankets can provide temporary protection when evacuation isn't possible.

How to Properly Use Fire Dept Blankets

1. Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its storage case
2. Hold the blanket by the protective flaps or edges (never grab the center)
3. Shield your hands and arms with the blanket material
4. Gently place or throw the blanket over the fire
5. Leave in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure complete extinguishment

Fire Dept Blankets vs. Regular Fire Blankets

Fire department blankets typically feature:
- Thicker, more durable materials (1.5mm thickness vs. 0.8mm for consumer versions)
- Higher temperature resistance (900°F vs. 500°F)
- Larger sizes for covering multiple people
- Industrial-grade stitching and grommets for repeated use

Maintenance and Inspection

Inspect fire dept blankets monthly:
- Check for tears, holes, or discoloration
- Ensure quick-release mechanisms work smoothly
- Verify the storage container isn't damaged
Replace after any use or every 7 years (even if unused) as fire retardant treatments degrade.

Where to Install Fire Dept Blankets

Strategic locations include:
- Kitchens (near but not directly above stoves)
- Workshops and garages
- Near electrical panels
- Industrial sites with flammable materials
Mount in visible, easily accessible spots 3-5 feet above floor level.

Limitations to Remember

Fire dept blankets aren't suitable for:
- Large, spreading fires
- Pressurized gas fires
- Metal (Class D) fires
- Deep fryer fires (use Class K extinguishers instead)
Always call emergency services before attempting to fight any fire.

Choosing Quality Fire Dept Blankets

Look for these certifications:
- NFPA 701 (flame resistance standard)
- UL certification
- EN 1869 (European standard)
- ISO 9001 manufacturing quality
Reputable brands include Kidde, First Alert, and Fire Blanket Australia.

Training Recommendations

Many fire departments offer free demonstrations on proper fire blanket use. Consider:
1. Annual fire safety refreshers
2. Hands-on practice with expired blankets
3. Family fire drills including blanket deployment
Proper training increases effectiveness by 300% in real emergencies.

Fire dept blankets remain one of the most underutilized yet effective fire safety tools. When properly selected, maintained, and used, they can prevent small fires from becoming disasters. Pair them with smoke detectors and extinguishers for complete protection.