Essential Guide to Rolls of Fire Blanket: Safety Uses & Proper Handling
Fire blankets are crucial safety tools for smothering small fires. This guide explains how rolls of fire blanket work, their proper uses, installation tips, and maintenance. You'll learn when to use them instead of extinguishers and how they protect against various fire types.
What Are Rolls of Fire Blanket?
Rolls of fire blanket are specially designed safety devices made from fire-resistant materials like fiberglass or wool. They come in compact rolls for easy storage and quick deployment. When unrolled, these blankets smother fires by cutting off oxygen supply.
Standard sizes range from 1m×1m to 1.8m×1.8m. The roll format makes them space-efficient for mounting on walls or placing in cabinets. Unlike folded blankets, rolls allow faster one-handed deployment in emergencies.
When to Use Fire Blankets
Rolls of fire blanket are ideal for:
- Kitchen fires (grease, electrical appliances)
- Clothing fires
- Small trash can fires
- Workshop fires (soldering, welding sparks)
They're particularly effective on Class F (cooking oil) fires where water extinguishers would spread flames. Never use them on large, out-of-control fires - evacuate immediately instead.
How to Properly Use Fire Blankets
Follow these steps when using rolls of fire blanket:
- Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container
- Hold the blanket with the protective flaps covering your hands
- Approach the fire cautiously (stay at arm's length)
- Place the blanket over the flames completely
- Leave it in place until completely cooled (15-30 minutes)
Remember: Never throw the blanket - always place it carefully to avoid spreading flames. For clothing fires, wrap the blanket around the person and have them stop, drop, and roll.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper placement ensures quick access during emergencies:
- Mount rolls of fire blanket near potential fire sources (kitchens, workshops)
- Keep them 1-1.5m above the floor for easy reach
- Avoid humid areas that might degrade the material
- Check expiration dates (typically 5-7 years)
- Inspect monthly for damage or contamination
Replace blankets that show discoloration, tears, or oil stains. Practice deploying them occasionally to maintain familiarity.
Fire Blankets vs. Extinguishers
While both are important, rolls of fire blanket offer advantages in certain situations:
- No chemical residue (safer for food areas)
- No maintenance like pressure checks
- Easier for untrained users
- Reusable if undamaged
- Effective on grease fires where extinguishers may spread flames
However, extinguishers work better on larger fires and at greater distances. Most safety experts recommend having both options available.
Selecting Quality Fire Blankets
When choosing rolls of fire blanket, look for:
- Certification marks (EN 1869, UL, or ASTM standards)
- Thick, durable material (at least 0.43mm fiberglass)
- Heat-resistant handles or flaps
- Clear usage instructions printed on the container
- Appropriate size for your space
Professional-grade blankets often have color indicators that change when exposed to high temperatures, signaling when replacement is needed.
Specialized Fire Blanket Applications
Beyond typical home/office use, rolls of fire blanket serve specialized purposes:
- Industrial:Larger blankets (up to 3m×3m) for welding areas
- Automotive:Flame-resistant wraps for racing fuel tanks
- Laboratories:Chemical-resistant variants
- Marine:Saltwater-resistant coatings for boats
These specialized versions maintain the same operating principle but use enhanced materials for specific environments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using rolls of fire blanket, never:
- Reuse on another fire without inspection
- Store near heat sources that could degrade the material
- Attempt to fight large, spreading fires
- Remove the blanket too soon (wait until completely cool)
- Block access with furniture or decorations
Proper training ensures you'll use your fire blanket effectively when needed. Many fire departments offer free demonstrations.
