Fire Fighter Blankets: Essential Safety Tools for Home and Workplace
Summary:Fire fighter blankets are crucial safety devices that smother small fires by cutting off oxygen. This guide explains how they work, proper usage techniques, maintenance tips, and why every home should have one.
What Are Fire Fighter Blankets?
Fire fighter blankets, also called fire blankets, are safety devices made from flame-resistant materials like fiberglass or wool. They're designed to extinguish small fires by smothering them - cutting off the fire's oxygen supply. These blankets come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3x3 feet to 6x6 feet.
How Fire Fighter Blankets Work
When you place a fire fighter blanket over flames, it creates a barrier between the fire and surrounding oxygen. Without oxygen, the fire can't sustain itself. The blanket's material doesn't burn easily and can withstand temperatures up to 900°F (482°C). This makes them effective for:
- Kitchen fires (especially grease fires)
- Clothing fires
- Small trash can fires
- Electrical equipment fires (after power is cut)
Proper Usage of Fire Fighter Blankets
To use a fire fighter blanket correctly:
- Pull the blanket from its container by the tabs (never unfold it first)
- Hold the blanket like a shield in front of you
- Approach the fire carefully from upwind
- Place the blanket over the flames completely
- Leave the blanket in place for at least 15 minutes
- Call emergency services if the fire persists
Remember: Never throw the blanket - always place it carefully to avoid spreading flames.
Benefits Over Fire Extinguishers
While fire extinguishers are essential, fire fighter blankets offer unique advantages:
- No messy chemical residue
- No maintenance (no pressure gauges or refills)
- Can wrap around a person whose clothes are on fire
- More effective on grease fires than water-based extinguishers
- Longer shelf life (typically 7-10 years)
Choosing the Right Fire Fighter Blanket
When selecting a fire fighter blanket, consider:
- Size:Larger blankets (4x6 feet) work better for most applications
- Material:Fiberglass is most common; wool is more expensive but effective
- Certification:Look for NFPA or UL certification
- Storage:Choose easy-to-access wall mounts for quick deployment
Maintenance and Replacement
Fire fighter blankets require minimal maintenance but should be:
- Stored in their original containers when not in use
- Kept in easily accessible locations (kitchens, workshops, garages)
- Inspected annually for damage or contamination
- Replaced every 7-10 years or after any use
Common Mistakes to Avoid
People often misuse fire fighter blankets by:
- Trying to reuse them after deployment
- Storing them near heat sources
- Using them on large or spreading fires
- Removing the blanket too quickly
- Forgetting to call emergency services
Where to Install Fire Fighter Blankets
Strategic placement is key for effectiveness. Install blankets:
- In kitchens (within 10 feet of cooking areas)
- Near fireplaces or wood stoves
- In workshops with flammable materials
- In garages near electrical panels
- In RVs and boats with cooking facilities
Final Safety Tips
Remember these key points about fire fighter blankets:
- They're for small, contained fires only
- Always have an escape route when using one
- Practice deploying your blanket before an emergency
- Teach all household members how to use them
- Combine with smoke detectors for complete protection
