How to Use Your Fire Blanket

It is crucial that every home and business has fire protection devices in place, including fire extinguishers and fire blankets. In the event of a fire emergency, these devices can save lives and prevent the destruction of thousands of dollars worth of property. Fire blankets are perhaps the simplest form of fire protection, but are often overlooked by property owners.

How a Fire Blanket Works

A fire blanket is designed to extinguish small fires that have just started to develop. It is simply a sheet of fire retardant material that is placed over a fire to smother it. Typically, fire blankets are made from fibreglass, kevlar or any material that only burns at extremely high temperatures. Most fire blankets can be used at temperatures up to 900 degrees.

Fires require heat, fuel and an oxidising agent to work (usually oxygen). Fire blankets work by removing the oxygen required by the fire. They are a simple and extremely useful “first step” in preventing a fire from spreading and can be useful for shielding people from fire.

Because fire blankets are so simple to use, they are often better in a fire emergency situation than a fire extinguisher. An inexperienced person who is panicking about a fire may struggle to use a fire extinguisher correctly. A fire blanket is simply thrown on top of the fire.

Some industrial sites store their fire blankets on quick releases hooks so they can be immediately used to cover someone whose clothes are on fire. In many cases, these types of fire blankets are made from wool that has been treated with a fire retardant material.

Precautions When Using a Fire Blanket

If your home for business has an old fire blanket, it is important to check the label to see what material it is made from. Some older fire blankets may contain asbestos and should not be handled or removed from their packet. If you are unsure about the materials used in your fire blanket, you should dispose of it appropriately and purchase a modern blanket.

It is important to understand that fire blankets may not be appropriate for some fire emergencies. If oil from a deep fryer has caught on fire, a fire blanket may not be capable of stopping the fire and in some cases, car increase the risk for people in the room.

Fire blankets are usually contained in a packet with a simple pull handle. Users pull the handle and the blanket will seperate from the packet. To use a fire blanket, simply place it on top of the fire, ensuring that the entire fire is covered by the blanket. Fire blankets usually contain tails that allows the operator to cover their hands when placing the blanket.

Fire City Stock High Quality Fire Blankets

Fire City stock a wide range of fire safety equipment including fire extinguishers, fire blankets, safety signs and much more. We offer next day delivery and out friendly staff are happy to help you understand the types of equipment your home or business needs.

contact us today.