Fire Action Blanket: Your Essential Guide to Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness

A fire action blanket is a crucial safety tool that smothers small fires by cutting off oxygen. This guide explains how to use it properly, its benefits over extinguishers, maintenance tips, and why every home needs one for complete fire protection.

What Is a Fire Action Blanket?

A fire action blanket is a specially designed safety device made from fire-resistant materials (typically fiberglass or wool treated with flame-retardant chemicals). When placed over a fire, it starves the flames of oxygen, effectively putting out small fires before they spread.

Unlike fire extinguishers that require proper aiming and can make a mess, a fire action blanket is simple to use - just unfold it and carefully place it over the flames. This makes it ideal for kitchen fires (especially grease fires), clothing fires, or small trash can fires.

Key Features:Fire action blankets are lightweight (typically 1-2 lbs), compact when folded (about the size of a placemat), and can withstand temperatures up to 900°F (482°C). They're reusable unless damaged and have a long shelf life (5-10 years).

When to Use a Fire Action Blanket

Your fire action blanket should be your first line of defense against:

• Grease fires:Never use water on cooking oil fires - the blanket is perfect for smothering them safely
• Clothing fires:If someone's clothes catch fire, wrap them in the blanket to extinguish flames
• Small appliance fires:Toasters, microwaves, or other small electrical fires
• Waste basket fires:Quickly contain paper or trash fires before they spread

Important:Don't use the blanket for large fires, gas fires, or chemical fires. In these cases, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

How to Use Your Fire Action Blanket Properly

Follow these steps for effective fire suppression:

1. Turn off the heat source if safe to do so (like a stove burner)
2. Hold the blanket by the corners or tabs (never by the center)
3. Shield your hands and arms with the blanket as you approach
4. Place (don't throw) the blanket gently over the flames
5. Leave it in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is completely out
6. Don't peek - lifting the blanket prematurely could reignite the fire

Pro Tip:Practice removing your fire action blanket from its pouch with one hand. In an emergency, you might need your other hand to protect your face or steady yourself.

Fire Action Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher

While both are important, fire action blankets have distinct advantages:

• No cleanup:Unlike extinguishers that leave chemical residue, blankets create no mess
• Easier to use:No need to remember PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)
• Better for grease fires:Extinguishers can spread burning grease, while blankets contain it
• Longer shelf life:Extinguishers need regular maintenance and pressure checks

However, extinguishers are better for larger fires or when you can't safely approach the flames. The best protection comes from having both tools available.

Choosing the Right Fire Action Blanket

Not all blankets are equal. Look for these features:

• Size:At least 39" x 39" (1m x 1m) to cover typical fires
• Material:Fiberglass with fire-retardant treatment (avoid cheap wool blends)
• Certification:Meets EN 1869 or ASTM standards
• Storage pouch:Easy-open design with clear instructions
• Tabs or handles:For safe deployment without touching flames

Invest in a quality blanket - it could last a decade and save your property or even lives.

Maintenance and Storage

To keep your fire action blanket ready for emergencies:

• Store in an easily accessible location (near kitchen but not right next to stove)
• Keep in its original pouch to protect from dust and damage
• Inspect every 6 months for tears, discoloration, or stiffness
• Replace if used, damaged, or after 10 years (even if unused)
• Wash only if necessary (follow manufacturer instructions carefully)

Remember:A fire action blanket is only effective if you can reach it quickly. Mount it on a wall or keep it in an easily accessible drawer.

Fire Safety Beyond the Blanket

While a fire action blanket is essential, complete fire safety includes:

• Working smoke alarms on every level (test monthly)
• Fire extinguisher (ABC type) for larger fires
• Escape plan with two exits from every room
• Regular checks of electrical cords and appliances
• Safe cooking practices (never leave cooking unattended)

Your fire action blanket is a simple but powerful tool that can prevent small emergencies from becoming disasters. By understanding its proper use and keeping it accessible, you're taking an important step in protecting your home and family from fire dangers.