Fire Fighting Blanket: Your Essential Safety Tool for Home and Workplace

A fire fighting blanket is a simple yet effective safety device that smothers small fires by cutting off oxygen. Made from flame-resistant materials, it's perfect for kitchen fires, electrical equipment, and personal protection. Every home and workplace should have at least one.

What Is a Fire Fighting Blanket?

A fire fighting blanket is a safety device designed to extinguish small fires. Typically made from fiberglass or other flame-resistant materials, it works by smothering the fire and cutting off its oxygen supply. These blankets come in various sizes, with the most common being 1m x 1m or 1.2m x 1.2m.

You'll find fire fighting blankets in bright colors (usually red or orange) for easy identification during emergencies. They're stored in quick-release containers that allow for rapid deployment when needed. The blanket itself is folded in a specific way to ensure you can easily grab and unfold it with one hand.

How Does a Fire Fighting Blanket Work?

The science behind fire fighting blankets is simple but effective. Fire needs three elements to burn: heat, fuel, and oxygen. The blanket works by removing the oxygen component from this "fire triangle." When you place the blanket over flames, it creates a barrier that prevents oxygen from reaching the fire, causing it to die out.

Fire fighting blankets are particularly effective on:

• Grease fires (common in kitchens)
• Electrical fires
• Small trash or wastebasket fires
• Clothing fires (when wrapped around a person)

When to Use a Fire Fighting Blanket

Knowing when to use your fire fighting blanket is crucial for safety. You should reach for it when:

1. The fire is contained and small (no larger than the blanket itself)
2. You can safely approach the fire without risking injury
3. The fire involves cooking oil, grease, or electrical equipment
4. Someone's clothing catches fire

Never use a fire fighting blanket on large, spreading fires or chemical fires that may react with the blanket material. In these cases, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

How to Properly Use a Fire Fighting Blanket

Using a fire fighting blanket correctly maximizes its effectiveness. Follow these steps:

1. Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container
2. Hold the blanket by the corners with the folded edges toward you
3. Shield your hands by folding the corners over your palms
4. Approach the fire slowly and carefully
5. Place the blanket over the fire, starting from the nearest edge
6. Leave the blanket in place until the fire is completely out and the area has cooled

If using the blanket on a person whose clothes are on fire, wrap them completely and have them stop, drop, and roll while covered by the blanket.

Benefits of Having a Fire Fighting Blanket

Fire fighting blankets offer several advantages over other fire suppression methods:

• Easy to use:No special training required
• No mess:Unlike fire extinguishers, they don't leave residue
• Reusable:Can be used multiple times if undamaged
• Safe for electrical fires:Doesn't conduct electricity
• Compact storage:Takes up minimal space
• No maintenance:Doesn't require regular servicing like extinguishers

Choosing the Right Fire Fighting Blanket

When selecting a fire fighting blanket, consider these factors:

Material:Look for blankets made from fiberglass or other non-flammable materials. Some advanced models include silicone coatings for extra durability.

Size:Standard sizes range from 1m x 1m to 1.8m x 1.8m. Choose based on your potential fire risks - larger blankets can cover bigger fires but take up more storage space.

Certification:Ensure the blanket meets safety standards like EN 1869 (Europe) or AS/NZS 3504 (Australia/New Zealand). In the U.S., look for UL certification.

Storage container:The container should allow quick, one-handed access and protect the blanket from dust and damage.

Fire Blanket Maintenance and Replacement

While fire fighting blankets require minimal maintenance, you should:

• Inspect periodically for damage or contamination
• Replace if the blanket shows signs of wear, holes, or chemical exposure
• Check the expiration date (typically 5-7 years from manufacture)
• Store in an easily accessible location away from potential fire sources

After use, carefully inspect the blanket. If undamaged, you can refold it according to manufacturer instructions for future use. However, many safety experts recommend replacing after any fire incident.

Fire Fighting Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher

While both are valuable safety tools, fire fighting blankets have distinct advantages in certain situations:

For comprehensive protection, most safety experts recommend having both a fire fighting blanket and appropriate fire extinguishers in your home and workplace.

Where to Install Fire Fighting Blankets

Strategic placement ensures quick access during emergencies. Install fire fighting blankets:

• In the kitchen (within reach but away from the stove)
• Near potential fire hazards like fireplaces or workshops
• In laboratories or areas with electrical equipment
• In RVs, boats, and other vehicles

Mount the container on a wall at eye level or slightly below for easy access. Make sure all household members or employees know the location and how to use the blanket.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using a fire fighting blanket, avoid these errors:

• Throwing the blanket:Gently place it over the fire
• Removing too soon:Leave in place until completely cool
• Using on large fires:Blankets are for small, contained fires only
• Improper storage:Keep in its container to prevent damage
• Neglecting to replace:Check condition regularly

Conclusion

A fire fighting blanket is an essential, easy-to-use safety device that every home and workplace should have. Its ability to quickly smother small fires makes it particularly valuable for kitchen and electrical fires. By understanding proper usage, placement, and maintenance, you can significantly improve your fire safety preparedness. Remember, while fire fighting blankets are effective tools, they're not substitutes for proper fire prevention measures and emergency planning.