What is a Fire Blanket Used for? A Complete Guide

Fire blankets are a simple and effective tool for quickly controlling small fires without the need for extensive training. It’s crucial to select the right size and understand when to use them to protect both your home and family.

A fire blanket is a safety device made from fire-resistant materials. It is designed to put out small fires by cutting off their oxygen supply. Fire blankets are effective for kitchen fires and can be used in homes and businesses. They must meet British Standards BS EN 1869: 1997 for safe home use.

Fire blankets are used to extinguish small fires, especially in kitchens. They are helpful for Class F fires involving cooking oils. Fire blankets can also put out waste bin fires. Additionally, they can be wrapped around a person if their clothes catch fire. They are useful in homes, public spaces, and workplaces.

Fire blankets are suitable for small fires or Class F fires, which are typically caused by cooking fats and oils. These fires should not be put out with water. Instead, a fire blanket is ideal for safely smothering and extinguishing them.

• Smothers Flames: The fire blanket is used to cover flames, effectively cutting off their oxygen supply.
• Extinguishes Fire: By starving the fire of oxygen, it helps extinguish the flames before they can spread.
• Easy Deployment: A simple grab and pull of the handles allows the blanket to fall from the wall container.
• Protected Hands: The blanket can cover the user’s hands, protecting them from burns during deployment.
• No Special Training Required: Fire blankets can be safely used in emergencies without any special training, though it’s important to familiarize yourself with the instructions on the container beforehand.

Fire blankets should be kept in or near the kitchen, but not too close to fire hazards. Hang them on the wall where they are easy to see, ideally next to a fire extinguisher for extra safety. They work best for cooking fat fires, so keep them accessible but away from the stove. Fire blankets always place them near an exit to ensure a safe escape if the fire gets too big.

Fire blankets are designed for Class F fires, which involve cooking fats and oils. These fires cannot be extinguished with water or regular extinguishers due to the high temperatures of burning fats. Understanding what is a fire blanket used for is essential, as fire blankets are made from fire-retardant materials, fire blankets effectively tackle these specific types of fires. 

Once you’ve confirmed that the fire is a Class F type, follow these steps to use a fire blanket safely:

• Locate and Check: Ensure the fire blanket is undamaged and visible.
• Turn Off the Heat Source: If it’s safe, turn off the source of heat.
• Release the Blanket: Pull both tabs on the blanket packaging sharply to remove it.
• Protect Your Hands: Roll the edge of the blanket over your hands for protection.
• Cover the Fire: Gently place the blanket over the flames without throwing it, keeping your hands and face away.
• Approach from the Closest Edge: Lay the blanket down from the edge closest to the flames to avoid the fire running up the blanket.
• Monitor the Fire: If you haven’t turned off the heat source yet, do it now.
• Leave the Blanket in Place: Keep the blanket over the fire for at least 15-30 minutes to ensure the flames are fully extinguished.
• Call the Fire Brigade: Always leave the building and call emergency services, even if you think the fire is under control, as there may be a risk of re-ignition.

If at any point you feel unsafe, exit the area immediately and contact emergency services.

Fire blankets are effective for extinguishing clothing fires and can help prevent serious injuries. Follow these steps for a quick response:

• Wrap the Blanket: Roll the blanket around your hands for protection before approaching the flames. Then, wrap it around the person to cover the fire.
• Calm the Individual: Instruct the person to **STOP, DROP, & ROLL**, meaning they should drop to the floor and roll until the flames are out.
• Seek Help: Call emergency services or get medical attention immediately.

While most people recognize fire extinguishers as essential fire safety tools, fire blankets are less familiar and typically found in commercial kitchens. Both tools are important for extinguishing fires, but knowing when to use each is crucial.

Situations may arise where a fire blanket is more appropriate than an extinguisher and vice versa. Understanding their respective pros and cons will help determine the best safety equipment for your building.

Fire blankets are small safety tools often found near kitchens. They can smother flames by cutting off oxygen, making them effective for small oil or grease fires in pans. Quick action with a fire blanket can prevent a small fire from growing, and they are specifically designed for this purpose, unlike fire extinguishers, which tackle larger fires.

Fire extinguishers are crucial for quickly addressing small fires before they escalate. They are especially effective in high-risk areas like kitchens and server rooms, where specific types, such as wet chemicals for grease fires or CO2 for electrical fires, can be used.

These tools are essential during the early stages of a fire, allowing for immediate action to prevent significant damage. However, if a fire becomes too large, evacuating the area and calling emergency services should always be the first priority.

Fire blankets are classified into two main types

1. Fixed-Point Fire Blankets: Fixed-point fire blankets are permanently mounted on walls or ceilings in high-risk areas like kitchens and warehouses. They ensure easy access during emergencies.
2. Throw-Over Fire Blankets:,Throw-over fire blankets are made from wool and can be easily tossed over flames. Commonly found in homes and offices, they offer quick protection against small fires.

Knowing when to use fixed-point or throw-over fire blankets is essential for effective fire safety and a prompt response to emergencies.

When selecting a fire blanket, consider the three available sizes: 1 x 1m, 1.2 x 1.2m, and 1.2 x 1.8m. The blanket should be large enough to cover the entire fire to effectively smother it. Smaller blankets are suitable for home kitchen fires, while larger ones are ideal for commercial kitchens or workshop fires.

Additionally, evaluate the space you need to protect and the potential fire hazards. Look for UL-rated blankets for assurance of quality and safety. Opt for blankets with straps or handles for easy access during emergencies. If multiple blankets are needed, consider packages for convenient storage. Lastly, think about any specific requirements you may have when choosing your fire blanket.

Fire blankets usually last about seven years, but check the manufacturer’s guidelines for exact details. If the blanket gets damaged or is used to put out a fire, it should be replaced right away to keep everyone safe.

Disposing of fire blankets correctly is important for safety. Always replace a fire blanket after it’s used, as it may not work properly anymore. If it shows any signs of damage, like tears or fraying, replace it immediately. To dispose of a used blanket, fold it back into its original packaging if you can, or wrap it in newspaper and throw it away in the trash.

Yes, fire blankets require commissioning upon installation and should be serviced annually. This includes a visual inspection to ensure they are not damaged, worn, or dirty. Proper storage in their container is essential for quick access in an emergency, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Fire blankets must be tested to comply with the standard BS EN 1869:1997. When buying a fire blanket, look for the British Standards Kitemark to ensure it meets this standard. Blankets that are only CE marked may not have undergone British Standards testing. 

Fire blankets are essential for handling cooking fires involving fats and oils. Knowing what is a fire blanket used for is crucial, as they work by covering the flames to cut off oxygen, helping to prevent the fire from spreading. Using them correctly and keeping them in good condition is vital for safety.

Incorporating fire blankets into your fire safety plan can help protect lives and property. Regular checks and training ensure that they are easy to find and ready to use in case of an emergency.