Fire Blanket in Cabinet: Essential Safety Guide for Every Home

A fire blanket in cabinet is a crucial safety item that can quickly smother small fires. This guide explains how to choose, store, and use fire blankets effectively, their benefits over extinguishers, and proper maintenance for optimal safety in kitchens, workshops, and other fire-prone areas.

Why You Need a Fire Blanket in Your Cabinet

Having a fire blanket in cabinet provides immediate access to fire suppression when seconds count. Unlike extinguishers that require training, fire blankets are simple to use - just pull from their case and cover the flames. They're particularly effective for:

• Grease fires in kitchens (where water would make things worse)
• Clothing fires on people
• Small electrical fires
• Containing fires until help arrives

Pro Tip:Store your fire blanket in cabinet near potential fire sources but not directly above them (like next to rather than above the stove). This ensures easy access without exposing it to initial flames.

Choosing the Right Fire Blanket for Your Cabinet

Not all fire blankets are equal. When selecting one for your cabinet, consider:

• Size:Standard 1m×1m blankets work for most home fires, while larger 1.2m×1.2m versions offer more coverage
• Material:Fiberglass with fire-resistant coating is most common and effective
• Certification:Look for EN 1869 (Europe) or ASTM F1989 (US) standards
• Ease of access:Quick-release cabinets or wall-mounted cases prevent fumbling during emergencies

Proper Installation of Your Fire Blanket Cabinet

Where and how you mount your fire blanket cabinet significantly impacts its effectiveness:

• Install between 1.2m-1.5m from the floor for adult access
• Choose locations with clear visibility and no obstructions
• In kitchens, place near exits (not behind cooking areas)
• Use sturdy mounting hardware that won't fail when pulling the blanket
• Mark clearly with standard fire safety signage

How to Use a Fire Blanket from Cabinet

When fire strikes, follow these steps:

1. Turn off heat source if safe to do so (especially for cooking fires)
2. Open cabinet and pull tabs to release blanket
3. Hold blanket by the corners with hands protected behind it
4. Place blanket over flames completely - don't throw it
5. Leave in place until completely cool (at least 30 minutes)
6. Never reuse a deployed blanket - replace immediately

Maintenance of Your Cabinet-Stored Fire Blanket

To ensure readiness:

• Inspect monthly for damage or cabinet obstructions
• Check expiration date (typically 5-7 years from manufacture)
• Keep cabinet clean and free of dust/debris
• Train all household members on location and usage
• Replace after any deployment, even if unused

Fire Blanket vs. Extinguisher: When to Choose Which

While both are valuable, fire blankets in cabinets offer advantages for certain scenarios:

• No chemical residue to clean up
• No risk of spreading grease fires (as with some extinguishers)
• Easier for people with limited strength to operate
• More effective for person-on-fire situations
• No maintenance beyond visual inspection

However, keep extinguishers for larger fires and combine both for comprehensive protection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Maximize your fire blanket's effectiveness by avoiding these errors:

• Storing too close to heat sources (degrades materials)
• Blocking access with other items in cabinet
• Using on large or spreading fires (call professionals instead)
• Opening cabinet violently (may disturb fire)
• Attempting to reuse after deployment

By properly maintaining a fire blanket in cabinet and understanding its use, you add a critical layer of protection against common household fires. Remember that no safety device replaces caution and prevention, but when needed, a well-placed fire blanket can prevent small incidents from becoming disasters.