Fire Safety: How to Use a Blanket to Put Out Fires Effectively

A fire blanket is an essential safety tool that smothers small fires by cutting off oxygen. This guide explains when and how to use a blanket to put out fires safely, its advantages over extinguishers, proper maintenance, and where to place it in your home or workplace.

What Is a Blanket to Put Out Fires?

A fire blanket is a safety device made from fire-resistant materials like fiberglass or wool treated with flame-retardant chemicals. When placed over a fire, it starves the flames of oxygen, effectively extinguishing small fires before they spread. Unlike fire extinguishers that require proper handling techniques, blankets are simple to use - just pull it from its container and drape it over the flames.

When Should You Use a Fire Blanket?

You should use a blanket to put out fires in these situations:

• Small kitchen fires (grease fires, stovetop flames)
• Clothing fires (if someone's clothes catch fire)
• Small electrical fires (after turning off power)
• Waste bin fires

Never use water on grease or electrical fires - this is when a blanket is most valuable. For larger fires, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Fire Blanket

1. Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container
2. Hold the blanket by the corners with your hands protected behind it
3. Approach the fire from upwind if possible
4. Place the blanket over the flames completely
5. Leave it in place for at least 15 minutes to ensure the fire is out
6. Call emergency services if you're unsure about the situation

Advantages of Using a Blanket to Put Out Fires

Compared to fire extinguishers, blankets offer several benefits:

• No maintenance:Unlike extinguishers that need regular checks, blankets require minimal upkeep
• Easy to use:No special training required - ideal for homes
• No mess:Extinguishers leave chemical residue, blankets don't
• Reusable:After proper inspection, some blankets can be reused
• Safe for grease fires:The best solution for kitchen fires

Proper Placement and Maintenance

To ensure your blanket to put out fires is always ready:

• Mount it in an easily accessible location (kitchen wall near exit)
• Keep it away from potential fire sources (at least 10 feet from stove)
• Check annually for damage or moisture
• Replace if the packaging is damaged or after use
• Practice removing it quickly (without actually unfolding)

Fire Blanket vs. Extinguisher: Which to Choose?

For most homes, having both is ideal. Use the blanket for small, contained fires (especially grease fires) and the extinguisher for larger or spreading fires. Blankets are particularly valuable in kitchens where most home fires start. Commercial kitchens often require both by law.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using a blanket to put out fires, never:

• Throw it - always place carefully to avoid spreading flames
• Remove it too soon - fires can reignite
• Use on large fires - evacuate instead
• Store near heat sources - this can degrade the material

Conclusion

A fire blanket is one of the simplest yet most effective fire safety tools. By understanding when and how to use a blanket to put out fires properly, you can prevent small emergencies from becoming disasters. Every home and workplace should have at least one properly mounted fire blanket, especially in areas where grease or electrical fires might occur.