Fire blankets are simple but powerful tools that can save lives and property. They are made of fire-resistant materials that can cover small fires, preventing them from spreading and causing more damage. They are especially useful when water or fire extinguishers are unavailable.
This article introduces six fire safety accessories to make your fire blankets more effective and convenient. Each of these accessories has its advantages and functions, which we will explain in detail in the following sections.
Read on to learn how to enhance your protection with these must-have fire safety accessories for blankets.
6 Fire Safety Accessories for Blankets
A. Fire Blanket Bag or Case
A fire blanket bag is a protective cover that stores unused fire blankets. It can protect the fire blanket from dust, moisture, and damage that could affect its performance and durability. A fire blanket bag can also make the fire blanket more accessible and visible in an emergency by allowing you to hang it on a wall, carry it with you, or fold it into a compact size.
Some examples of fire blanket bags are wall-mounted ones that have a pull-down tab for quick release, portable ones that have a handle or a strap for easy transport, or foldable ones that can fit into a drawer or a glove box.
When choosing the right fire blanket bag, consider the cover’s size, material, color, and label.
- The size should match the fire blanket’s dimensions
- The material should be fire-resistant and durable,
- The color should be bright and noticeable
- The label should indicate the contents and instructions of the fire blanket.
B. Fire Blanket Hook
A fire blanket hook is a simple device that can help you hang the fire blanket on a wall or a door. It can save space and improve accessibility of the fire blanket by keeping it out of the way but within reach in case of emergency.
There are different fire blanket hooks: metal, plastic, or magnetic. Metal and plastic hooks are nailed to the wall or the door, while magnetic hooks can be attached to any metal surface.
When installing and using the fire blanket hook, consider the hook’s location, height, and angle.
- The location should be near the potential fire sources, such as the stove, the fireplace, or the electrical outlets.
- The height should be easy to reach for everyone but not too low that children or pets can access it.
- The angle should be horizontal so the fire blanket can be quickly pulled out.
C. Fire Blanket Gloves
Fire blanket gloves are special gloves that can protect the hands from burns and injuries when using the fire blanket. They are made of fire-resistant materials that can withstand high temperatures and prevent heat transfer. Fire blanket gloves can enhance the grip and control of the fire blanket by preventing the fire blanket from slipping off the hands.
Some examples of fire blanket gloves are leather, cotton, or silicone ones. Leather gloves are durable and flexible, cotton gloves are breathable and comfortable, and silicone gloves are waterproof and easy to clean.
When choosing and wearing the fire blanket gloves, consider the gloves’ size, fit, and comfort.
- The size should match the hand size
- The fit should be snug but not tight
- The comfort should be suitable for the duration and frequency of use.
D. Fire Blanket Sticker or Sign
A fire blanket sticker or sign is a label that indicates the location and instructions of the fire blanket. It can increase the awareness and readiness of the fire blanket by making it easier to find and use in an emergency.
There are different fire blanket stickers or signs, adhesive or reflective. Adhesive stickers can be stuck to any smooth surface, like a wall, a door, or a cabinet. Reflective stickers can reflect light and shine in the dark, making them more noticeable. Glow-in-the-dark stickers can emit light without any external source, making them visible even in total darkness.
When placing and maintaining the fire blanket sticker or sign, consider the label’s visibility, readability, and cleanliness.
- The visibility should be high and unobstructed
- The readability should be clear and simple, and the cleanliness be regular and thorough.
E. Fire Blanket Spray
A fire blanket spray adds a layer of fire retardant coating to the fire blanket to improve the performance and durability of the fire blanket by enhancing its resistance to heat and flames.
There are different types of fire blanket sprays, water-based, solvent-based, or aerosol ones. Water-based sprays are eco-friendly and non-toxic, solvent-based sprays are fast-drying and long-lasting, and aerosol sprays are easy to use and evenly distributed.
Consider the spray’s frequency, coverage, and temperature when applying and storing the fire blanket spray. The frequency should be according to the manufacturer’s instructions, the coverage should be sufficient and uniform, and the temperature should be moderate and stable.
F. Fire Blanket Tester
A fire blanket tester can simulate a fire scenario to test the fire blanket. It can verify the quality and functionality of the fire blanket by measuring its ability to extinguish and withstand different types of fires.
There are different types of fire blanket testers, electric, gas, or manual ones. Electric testers use a heating element to generate a controlled fire, gas testers use a burner to produce a variable fire, and manual testers use a match or a lighter to ignite a combustible material.
Consider the device’s safety, accuracy, and environmental impact when using and disposing of the fire blanket tester. The safety should be ensured by wearing protective gear, following the instructions, and keeping a safe distance.
The accuracy is checked by calibrating the device, using the appropriate fire class, and recording the results. The environmental impact should be minimized by using eco-friendly fuels, reducing the emissions, and recycling the waste.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
Here are some steps and precautions to follow when using a fire blanket correctly and safely:
- Pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container. Hold the blanket before you, with the edges covering your hands, to shield yourself from the heat.
- Cover the fire completely with the blanket, starting from the near side and moving towards the far side. Ensure there are no gaps for the air to enter and fuel the fire.
- Turn off the heat source to help extinguish the fire faster
- Call for help and alert others to the fire.
- Do not remove the blanket until the fire is completely out and the blanket is cool. Removing the blanket too soon may cause the fire to flare up again.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from burns and improve your grip and control of the blanket.
- Avoid gaps between the blanket and the surface of the fire that can allow oxygen to enter and feed the fire, making it harder to put out. Tuck the blanket’s edges around the fire to create a tight seal.
- Keep a safe distance from the fire and the blanket. Do not touch or move the blanket until cool; it may be very hot and cause burns.
- Do not inhale the smoke or fumes from the fire or the blanket, as they may be toxic or harmful.
How to Clean and Maintain a Fire Blanket
Here are some guidelines on how to do so:
Frequency and methods of cleaning
- Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, clean your fire blanket after each use or at least once a year.
- To clean your fire blanket, wash it by hand or by machine, using cold water and mild detergent.
- Rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry completely.
- Do not wring, twist, or iron your fire blanket, as this may damage its fibers and coating.
- Store your fire blanket in a clean and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- You can fold it neatly, roll it up, and place it in a bag or a case.
Signs of wear and tear
- Inspect your fire blanket regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as holes, stains, frays, and odors.
- Holes compromise your fire blanket’s fire resistance and coverage, allowing the fire to escape or spread.
- Stains may indicate the presence of dirt, grease, or chemicals that may affect the performance and durability of your fire blanket.
- Frays can weaken the structure and strength of your fire blanket, making it more prone to tearing or breaking.
- Odors suggest the growth of mold, mildew, or bacteria that may cause health problems or allergies. If you notice any of these signs, replace your fire blanket immediately.
How to Dispose of a Used or Damaged Fire Blanket
Disposing of a fire blanket is not as simple as throwing it in the trash. Fire blankets are made of fire-resistant materials that may have environmental and legal implications depending on how they are disposed of.
Common methods of disposing of a fire blanket are recycling, landfilling, or incinerating. Recycling is the most eco-friendly option, as it reduces waste and saves resources. However, not all fire blankets are recyclable, and you need to check with the manufacturer or the local recycling center if they accept fire blankets.
Landfilling is putting the fire blanket in the normal domestic household waste. However, this may cause pollution and take up space in the landfills. Incinerating is the most effective option, destroying the fire blanket completely and preventing reuse. However, this may produce harmful emissions and require special facilities and permits.
To dispose of a fire blanket properly, follow these steps:
- Wrap the fire blanket in its original packaging or plastic bags to prevent contamination of the fire blanket or the surrounding environment.
- Label the fire blanket clearly with the words “Fire Blanket” and “Do Not Reuse.” This will alert anyone who handles the fire blanket of its nature and condition.
- Contact the local authorities for the best way to dispose of the fire blanket in your area. They may have specific regulations for fire blanket disposal or offer to collect and dispose of the fire blanket for you.
- Follow the instructions the authorities gave and dispose of the fire blanket accordingly. Ensure to comply with safety and environmental standards and avoid illegal or improper disposal methods.
How to Store a Fire Blanket Properly
Storing a fire blanket properly is important to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. The storage place’s location, temperature, and humidity can affect the fire blanket’s performance and durability.
- The location should be convenient and visible so you can easily access the fire blanket in an emergency.
- The location should be away from direct sunlight or heat sources, such as windows, radiators, or stoves, as these may damage the fire blanket’s fire-resistant properties and materials.
- The temperature and humidity should be moderate and stable, as extreme or fluctuating conditions may cause the fire blanket to deteriorate or mold.
Some of the common mistakes in storing a fire blanket
- Folding or rolling the fire blanket too tightly.
- Exposing the fire blanket to dirt, grease, or chemicals.
- Reusing or repairing a used or damaged fire blanket.
Conclusion
We have introduced you to six fire safety accessories that enhance your protection and convenience with fire blankets. These accessories are fire blanket holders, bags, signs, hooks, gloves, and stickers. Each of these accessories has its own advantages and functions, such as protecting, storing, indicating, hanging, gripping, and labeling the fire blanket.
Investing in these accessories and using them properly with your fire blanket can increase your chances of putting out small fires and preventing bigger disasters.
We hope you have found this article useful and informative. Thank you for your attention and interest. If you have any feedback or questions, please share them with us in the comments section below. Stay safe and prepared with fire blankets and accessories.
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