How To Use a Fire Blanket

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Use a Fire Blanket for Quick Fire Suppression

A fire blanket is a sheet of fire-resistant material you place over a fire to smother and stop it from spreading. They are easy to use, require no training, and can be reused after washing.

Fire blankets can save your life and property from the devastating effects of fire. According to the latest fire statistics, heating pads and electric blankets cause around 500 fires yearly, and kitchen fires account for 49% of home fires. A fire blanket can help you extinguish these fires quickly and safely before they get out of control.

This guide will show you how to use a fire blanket for different fire scenarios, such as cooking oil fires, clothing fires, and electrical fires. Follow these simple steps and learn to protect yourself and your loved ones from fire hazards.

What is a Fire Blanket?

A fire blanket is a woven fire-resistant material designed to extinguish small fires. It puts out small fires unsuitable for water or fire extinguishers in kitchen, clothing, electrical, car, and camping. A fire blanket works by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply, reducing the fire’s heat, and preventing the fuel of the fire from igniting or re-igniting.

What are the Benefits of Fire Blankets?

  • They are easy to use and only require placing the blanket over the fire and leaving it until it is out.
  • Easy to maintain and do not need regular servicing or refilling like fire extinguishers.
  • They are reusable. They can be washed and dried after use unless damaged by the fire.
  • They can be used for different fires and situations, such as cooking, welding, camping, or escaping.
  • They are cost-effective, cheaper than fire extinguishers, and can last long.
  • They are environmentally friendly and do not produce harmful chemicals or residues when used.

How To Use a Fire Blanket for Quick Fire Suppression

Step 1: Choose the Right Fire Blanket for Your Needs

Different types and sizes of fire blankets are available, depending on the material, the fire rating, and the purpose of the blanket. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a fire blanket:

  • Material

Fire blankets are made of fiberglass, wool, leather, or ceramic. Fiberglass is the most common material, as it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to high temperatures. Wool and leather are also suitable materials, as they are natural and can provide insulation and comfort. Ceramic is a newer material that can withstand very high temperatures and is suitable for industrial and laboratory settings.

  • Fire rating

Different fire ratings indicate how much heat and fire they can resist. Fire ratings are usually expressed in letters and numbers, such as 5B, 13A, or 75F. The letter indicates the fire class, which is the type of fuel involved in the fire, such as A for solid materials, B for liquids, C for gases, D for metals, E for electrical equipment, and F for cooking oils. The number indicates the fire size; the higher the number, the larger the fire the blanket can extinguish.

  • Durability: 

Fire blankets have different levels of durability, indicating how long they can last and how often they can be reused. Durability depends on the material, the quality, and the maintenance of the blanket. Some fire blankets are disposable and can only be used once and discarded, while others are reusable and can be washed and dried after use and then repacked for future use. 

  • Storage: 

Fire blankets have different storage options. Storage depends on the size, shape, and packaging of the blanket. Some fire blankets are stored in a pouch, a box, or a wall-mounted container with quick-release tabs or handles for easy access. Some fire blankets are stored in a backpack or a belt with a hood or a hole for the head for easy escape. Some fire blankets are stored in a metal case or a wall-mounted cabinet, with eyelets or straps for hanging or securing.

Here are some examples of fire blankets for different purposes, along with a table to compare their features and prices:

  • Kitchen fire blankets are small and square ones suitable for extinguishing cooking fires, such as grease, oil, or food. They are made of fiberglass and have quick-release tabs for easy access. They are often stored near the stove or oven for convenience.
  • Industrial fire blankets are large and rectangular, suitable for extinguishing welding, cutting, or grinding fires, such as sparks, slag, or molten metal. They are usually made of leather or ceramic and have eyelets or straps for hanging or securing. 
  • Emergency fire blankets are medium and square ones suitable for extinguishing clothing, electrical, or car fires, such as fabric, wire, or fuel. They are usually made of fiberglass or wool and have pull-down tabs or handles for easy access. 
  • Escape fire blankets are large and square for protecting oneself from flames and heat when escaping a fire. They are usually made of fiberglass or wool and have a hood or a hole for the head. 
  • Children and pets fire blankets are small and square for protecting against fires involving children and pets. They are usually made of wool or cotton and have a soft and comfortable texture. 

Type: Kitchen  

Size: 1 x 1m

Material: Fiberglass

Fire Rating: 5B

Durability: Disposable

Storage: Pouch

Price: $10-$20

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Type: Industrial

Size: 1.8 x 1.2m

Material: Leather or Ceramic

Fire Rating: 13A

Durability: Reusable

Storage: Case or Box

Price: $50-$100

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Type: Emergency

Size: 1.2 x 1.2m

Material: Fiberglass or Wool

Fire Rating: 8B

Durability: Reusable

Storage: Pouch or Bag

Price: $20-$40

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Type: Escape

Size: 1.8 x 1.8m

Material: Fiberglass or Wool

Fire Rating: 13A

Durability: Reusable

Storage: Backpack or Belt

Price: $40-$80

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Type: Children and Pets

Size: 1 x 1m

Material: Wool or Cotton

Fire Rating: 5B

Durability: Reusable

Storage: Drawer or Closet

Price: $10-$20

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Step 2: Store Your Fire Blanket in a Convenient and Accessible Location

Storing your fire blanket in a convenient and accessible location is very important, as it can save you precious time and effort in a fire emergency. Store your fire blanket where you can easily see and reach it, such as near the potential fire source or the exit, and in a way that protects it from dust, moisture, and damage, such as in a pouch, a box, or a wall-mounted container.

Here are some possible locations for storing your fire blanket, depending on the type and purpose of the blanket:

  • Kitchen fire blankets are small and should be stored near the stove or oven, where most kitchen fires start. Store your kitchen fire blanket in a box with quick-release tabs for easy access. Avoid storing your kitchen fire blanket in a drawer that can be hard to open or reach in a fire emergency.
  • Industrial fire blankets should be stored near the work area in a wall-mounted case or a metal box with straps for hanging. 
  • Emergency fire blankets should be stored in the bedroom. 
  • Escape fire blankets: store your escape fire blanket near the exit, where you can grab it and wrap it around yourself. 
  • Children and pet fire blankets should be stored in the closet, where you can easily reach and use them. You should also keep your children’s and pets’ fire blankets in a soft and comfortable material, such as wool or cotton, which can provide insulation and comfort. 

Here are some tips on maintaining your fire blanket:

  • Check your fire blanket regularly for any signs of damage, such as tears, holes, stains, or fraying. If your fire blanket is damaged, replace it as soon as possible, as it may not work correctly in a fire emergency.
  • Clean your fire blanket after use if it is contaminated by the fire, such as by oil, grease, or smoke. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean your fire blanket, and avoid using bleach, detergent, or fabric softener, as they may damage the fire-resistant material.
  • Dry your fire blanket thoroughly after washing and avoid ironing, wringing, or folding it, as they may damage the fire-resistant material of the blanket.
  • Fold your fire blanket neatly and carefully after drying if it is reusable, and avoid twisting, rolling, or crumpling your fire blanket, as they may damage the fire-resistant material of the blanket.
  • Repack your fire blanket securely and properly after folding if it is reusable. 

Step 3: Use Your Fire Blanket to Put Out Small Fires

To use your fire blanket, follow these general steps:

  • Pull the tabs or handles to release the fire blanket from storage.
  • Cover your hands with the corners of the fire blanket to protect them from the fire.
  • Place the fire blanket over the fire, covering it entirely and leaving no gaps for air to enter.
  • Leave the fire blanket on the fire until it is completely out, and do not remove it until it is cool.
  • Call the fire department if the fire is large, out of control, or involves gas or electricity.

Depending on the type of fire, you may need to adjust your actions accordingly. Here are some sub-sections for different types of fires, along with some dos and don’ts of using your fire blanket:

How to Use a Fire Blanket for Kitchen Fires

Kitchen fires involve cooking oil, grease, or food. They are very common and can spread quickly if not handled properly.

Do: 

  • Turn off the heat source, such as the stove or oven, if it is safe. 
  • Use a fire blanket to cover the fire, such as the frying pan, the pot, or the oven. 
  • Leave the fire blanket on the fire until it is out and cool. 
  • Call the fire department if the fire is large or involves gas.

Don’t 

  • Use water, flour, or baking soda to extinguish the fire, which can cause the fire to flare up or explode. 
  • Move or touch the fire, such as the frying pan, the pot, or the oven, as they can be very hot and cause burns. 
  • Remove the fire blanket from the fire until it is cool, which can cause the fire to re-ignite.

How to Use a Fire Blanket for Clothing Fires

Clothing fires start on a person’s clothing, usually involving candles, cigarettes, or sparks. They are very dangerous and can cause serious injuries or death if not treated quickly.

Do

  • Wrap the person with the fire blanket, covering their whole body and exposing only their face. 
  • Make the person stop, drop, and roll on the ground to smother the fire. 
  • Check the person for injuries, such as burns, smoke inhalation, or shock. 
  • Call the fire department or an ambulance if the person is hurt or unconscious.

Don’t

  • Use water, alcohol, or oil to put out the fire, as they can worsen the burns or cause infection. 
  • Remove the person’s clothing unless it is stuck to the skin, as it can cause more damage or pain. 
  • Remove the fire blanket from the person until it is out and cool, which can cause the fire to re-ignite.

How to Use a Fire Blanket for Electrical Fires

Electrical fires start from electrical equipment, such as wires, sockets, or appliances. They are very hazardous and can cause electrocution, power outage, or explosion if not handled properly.

Do

  • Unplug the power source, such as the cord, the switch, or the breaker, if it is safe. 
  • Use a fire blanket to cover the fire, such as the wire, the socket, or the appliance. 
  • Leave the fire blanket on the fire until it is out and cool. 
  • Call the fire department if the fire is large or involves gas.

Don’t

  • Use water, metal, or conductive materials to put out the fire, as they can cause electric shock, short circuit, or explosion. 
  • Touch or move the fire, such as the wire, the socket, or the appliance, as they can be live and dangerous. 
  • Remove the fire blanket from the fire until it is cool, which can cause the fire to re-ignite.

How to Use a Fire Blanket for Camping Fires

Camping fires involving campfires, stoves, or lanterns are common and can cause forest fires, wildlife damage, or injury if improperly handled.

Do

  • Choose a suitable location for your fire, such as a fire pit, a clearing, or a metal container. 
  • Keep a safe distance from your fire, such as 3 meters, and do not leave it unattended. 
  • Use a fire blanket to cover the fire, such as the campfire, the stove, or the lantern. 
  • Leave the fire blanket on the fire until it is out and cool. 
  • Extinguish the fire completely before leaving by pouring water, sand, or dirt over it.

Don’t: 

  • Use flammable materials, such as gasoline, alcohol, or aerosol, to start or fuel your fire, as they can cause it to flare up or explode. 
  • Throw or burn garbage in your fire, such as plastic, paper, or food, as they can cause toxic smoke, sparks, or embers. 
  • Remove the fire blanket from the fire until it is cool, which can cause the fire to re-ignite.

How to Use a Fire Blanket for Children and Pets

Children and pets are vulnerable to fires, as they may be curious, playful, or accidental. They may start or get involved in fires by playing with matches, candles, or lighters or knocking over lamps, heaters, or stoves. They may also panic, hide, or run away from fires, making it harder to rescue them.

Do

  • Educate your children and pets about fire safety by teaching them to stay away from fire sources, stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire, and call for help if they see a fire. 
  • Supervise your children and pets around fire sources by keeping them in sight, locking away fire hazards, and installing smoke alarms. 
  • Comfort your children and pets if they are scared or hurt by a fire, such as hugging them, talking to them, or taking them to a vet.

Don’t: 

  • Use your fire blanket to cover your children or pets unless they are on fire or need protection from flames and heat. 
  • A fire blanket may be too heavy, hot, or suffocating for them and cause more harm than good. Instead, use a soft and comfortable material, such as wool or cotton, to wrap or cover them. 
  • Remove the fire blanket or the material from your children or pets until the fire is out and cool, as it can cause the fire to re-ignite.

Step 4: Dispose or Reuse Your Fire Blanket After Use

After using your fire blanket, you may wonder whether you can reuse it. The answer depends on several factors, such as the material, the damage, and the manufacturer’s instructions for your fire blanket. 

Here are some steps to determine whether your fire blanket is reusable or disposable:

Step 1: Check the material of your fire blanket. 

Fire blankets are usually made of fiberglass, wool, leather, or ceramic. Fiberglass is the most common material, as it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to high temperatures. However, fiberglass fire blankets are often disposable, as they can lose their fire-resistant properties after use. Wool, leather, and ceramic fire blankets are more likely reusable, as they can withstand higher temperatures and repeated use.

Step 2: Check the damage of your fire blanket. 

If your fire blanket is damaged, you should not reuse it, as it may not work properly in a fire emergency. Check your fire blanket’s fire rating, which indicates how much heat and fire it can resist, and if your fire blanket has a low fire rating, such as 5B, it may not be able to extinguish a larger or hotter fire. It may be reusable if your fire blanket is undamaged and has a high fire rating, such as 13A.

Step 3: Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your fire blanket. 

Fire blankets come with instructions from the manufacturer, which tell you how to use, store, clean, and dispose of or reuse your fire blanket. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as they are based on your fire blanket’s specific features and quality. Some fire blankets are designed for single use only, while others are designed for multiple uses. Some fire blankets have an expiry date, while others do not. 

For disposable, follow these guidelines to dispose of it safely:

  • Wrap your fire blanket in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. This will prevent fire residues or fibers from escaping or contaminating the environment.
  • Label your fire blanket as hazardous waste, and write the date and reason for disposal. This will inform the waste collectors or authorities of the nature and source of your fire blanket.
  • Contact your local authority and ask them how to dispose of your fire blanket. Different regions may have different regulations and facilities for disposing of fire blankets. 

For reusable blankets, follow these guidelines to reuse them safely:

  • Wash your fire blanket if it is contaminated by oil, grease, or smoke. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on washing your fire blanket, and avoid using bleach, detergent, or fabric softener, as they may damage the fire-resistant material of your fire blanket.
  • Dry your fire blanket thoroughly by hanging it in a well-ventilated area or drying it on low heat. Avoid ironing, wringing, or folding your fire blanket, as they may damage the fire-resistant material of your fire blanket.
  • Fold your fire blanket neatly and carefully if it is reusable. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to fold your fire blanket, such as folding it in half, quarters, and then in eighths. Avoid twisting, rolling, or crumpling your fire blanket, as they may damage the fire-resistant material of your fire blanket.
  • Repack your fire blanket securely and properly if it is reusable by inserting it into the pouch, the box, or the wall-mounted container. 

When to replace your fire blanket, regardless of whether it is reusable or not:

  • Replace it after it gets damaged by a fire, as it may not work properly in a fire emergency. Check your fire blanket regularly for any signs of damage, such as tears, holes, stains, or fraying. 
  • Replace your fire blanket after a certain period of time, as it may lose its fire-resistant properties over time. If your fire blanket has no expiry date, experts recommend replacing it seven years after it’s commissioned.
  • Replace your fire blanket after several uses, as it may wear or degrade. If your fire blanket is not limited, experts recommend replacing it after three uses.

Conclusion

A fire blanket at home can save lives, property, and money. It can help you extinguish a fire quickly and safely without causing any mess or damage. It can also help you escape a fire by wrapping it around yourself or a loved one. A fire blanket is a simple and effective way to prevent fire disasters and protect your family and belongings.

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