A Guide to Fire Blankets

Fire blankets are an important part of safety equipment that can significantly reduce the risk of harm in an emergency. Whether in the home or in the workplace, having a fire blanket on hand can be a simple but effective way to tackle small fires before they grow out of control. In this article we will outline everything you need to know about fire blankets and how to use them in an emergency. 

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What is a Fire Blanket? 

A fire blanket is a safety device that is made from fire retardant fabric. It is designed to help extinguish small fires by smothering the fire and cutting off its supply of oxygen. Fire blankets are typically made from woven fibreglass and are stored in wall-mounted cases or pouches for easy access in an emergency. 

Whilst fire extinguishers are a common sight in the workplace, many workplaces may also have fire blankets in communal areas such as staff kitchens or canteens. Fire blankets can be used to tackle small fires and to protect an individual from flames, either by wrapping someone whose clothes have caught fire or by acting as a shield to escape a burning area. 

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How Do Fire Blankets Work?

Fire blankets work by smothering a flame and cutting off its oxygen supply. A fire needs three elements to ignite and spread; fuel, heat and oxygen. Cutting off a fires’ oxygen supply will prevent the fire from continuing to burn and spread. 

Types of Fire Blankets

As mentioned, fire blankets are made from fire resistant or fire retardant materials. Regardless of the material used, fire blankets work in the same way. However, different materials have different characteristics and therefore some materials may suit certain environments better than others. Popular materials for fire blankets include:

• Silicone – Silicone fire blankets are known for their resistance to high temperatures and flexibility. This flexibility allows for easier deployment, especially when wrapping a person, making them incredibly user-friendly. Their ability to withstand high temperatures makes them particularly effective at handling grease fires without melting. This higher resistance also enables them to provide a level of protection from harmful fumes. 

• Fibreglass – Fibreglass fire blankets are extremely heat-resistant and durable. They can handle incredibly high temperatures therefore making them suitable for a wide range of fires. Their durability also ensures that they can effectively suppress fires involving oil, fat or solvents making them well suited for industrial kitchens or manufacturing facilities. 

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When to Use a Fire Blanket

Fire blankets have a wide range of uses but are best suited for small fires or to protect someone whose clothes have caught fire. Below you will find examples of when to use a fire blanket.

• Kitchen fire – Kitchen fires can quickly spiral out of control when water is used in an attempt to extinguish them. Fire blankets are a safe alternative and are adept at tackling grease or oil fires. 

• Clothing fire – If an individuals’ clothes catch fire, wrapping them in a fire blanket can smother flames and stop the fire from spreading to other items of clothing. 

• Emergency escape – When attempting to escape a fire, fire blankets can provide protection from the flames and any fumes that may be released. 

• Emergency first aid – In an emergency, fire blankets can be repurposed to treat burns and safeguard the affected area from further harm. 

When not to use a fire blanket

Whilst fire blankets are incredibly versatile, they are predominantly suitable for small fires. They should not be used for large or spreading fires. They should also not be used for fires involving electrical appliances unless the blanket is specifically rated for electrical fires. In these situations it is best to evacuate the premises and call the emergency services. 

Fire blankets are incredibly helpful pieces of fire safety equipment. However, in most situations if a fire extinguisher is available and suitable for the type of fire, this should be used first. 

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How to Use a Fire Blanket

To use a fire blanket you should follow these steps:

1. If it is safe to do so, turn off the heat source. 
2. Pull the two tabs downwards to remove the blanket from its pouch. 
3. Stretch the blanket out and wrap the corners of the blanket around your hands for protection. 
4. If tackling a small fire – lift the blanket above the fire, release the blanket onto the flames and leave it there for at least 15 minutes.
5. If tackling a fire involving a person’s clothing – wrap the blanket around the person, aiming for the specific area that is burning and instruct them to stop, drop and roll. 

Fire blankets must only be used once and should be replaced after use. If the fire blanket fails to put out a fire, do not attempt to use an extinguisher. Instead, evacuate the area and call the emergency services. 

You must only use a fire blanket if you are confident in your ability to do so as improper use can cause a fire to spread and increase the risk of harm. 

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Fire blankets are an incredibly useful piece of fire safety equipment. They can be used to tackle small fires before they spread and to extinguish clothing fires before they cause further harm. When used properly they can extinguish a fire and ensure the safety of those in proximity. 

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Further Resources:

• Understanding the Different Types and Uses of Fire Extinguishers
• Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan: Free Template
• Fire Safety Courses