Fire Resistant Blanket Guide: Uses, Benefits and Safety Tips

Summary:A fire resistant blanket is essential safety equipment that smothers small fires. This guide explains how it works, when to use it, proper handling techniques, and key features to consider when purchasing one for home or workplace safety.

What Is a Fire Resistant Blanket?

A fire resistant blanket is a safety device made from flame-retardant materials designed to extinguish small fires by cutting off oxygen supply. Unlike regular blankets, it won't catch fire when exposed to flames. You'll typically find these in kitchens, workshops, laboratories, and industrial settings where fire risks exist.

How Does a Fire Resistant Blanket Work?

When you place a fire resistant blanket over flames, it starves the fire of oxygen - one of the three elements needed for combustion (along with heat and fuel). The blanket's tightly woven fibers resist burning while creating an airtight seal. Most models can withstand temperatures up to 900°F (482°C) for several minutes.

When Should You Use a Fire Resistant Blanket?

Use your fire resistant blanket for:

• Small kitchen fires (grease fires, stove flare-ups)
• Clothing fires (if someone's clothes catch fire)
• Electrical equipment fires (after cutting power)
• Workshop fires (small chemical or material fires)

Never use it for large, spreading fires or gas fires - evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

Proper Usage Techniques

To effectively use your fire resistant blanket:

1. Pull the tabs to quickly release the blanket from its container
2. Hold the blanket like a shield in front of you
3. Gently place it over the flames - don't throw it
4. Leave it in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is out
5. Don't peek - this could reintroduce oxygen

Key Features to Look For

When choosing a fire resistant blanket, consider:

• Material:Fiberglass or wool blends offer best protection
• Size:Minimum 3ft x 3ft for home use, larger for workplaces
• Certifications:Look for UL, CE, or EN1869 standards
• Storage:Quick-release containers prevent fumbling
• Durability:Should withstand multiple uses if properly maintained

Maintenance and Care

Your fire resistant blanket needs proper care:

• Store in an easily accessible location away from heat sources
• Check monthly for damage or moisture
• Replace if the material becomes stiff, brittle, or develops holes
• Most blankets last 5-7 years with proper storage
• After use, have it professionally inspected before reuse

Fire Resistant Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher

While both are important, a fire resistant blanket has advantages for certain situations:

• No messy chemical residue like from extinguishers
• Easier to use (no pins to pull or levers to squeeze)
• More effective on grease fires where water would spread flames
• Can wrap around a person whose clothes are on fire

However, extinguishers work better for larger fires and when you can't get close to the flames.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using your fire resistant blanket, never:

• Use it on a person who's standing (they should stop, drop, and roll)
• Attempt to reuse a blanket that's been in a fire without inspection
• Store it near the stove where flames could prevent access
• Fold it too tightly - this can damage the fibers
• Ignore expiration dates - materials degrade over time

Final Safety Tips

Remember these key points about your fire resistant blanket:

• Practice removing it from its container before an emergency
• Teach all household members or coworkers how to use it
• Have at least one on every floor of your home
• Pair it with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers for complete protection
• When in doubt about a fire's size, evacuate immediately