Everything You Need To Know About Fire Blankets

Fire is an unfathomable force that leaves ashes, ruins and suffering in its wake. Yet, we have worked deliberately to reduce the hazard and contain it. During the scorching trials of flames, a layer of protection and comfort befalls us as a fire blanket. In fire safety, fire blankets have improved survival chances while lowering injuries and more. Let’s take a deep dive into these essential fire safety tools and why everyone should have them: 

What Are Fire Blankets?

Fire blankets are a specialized piece of fire safety equipment. They are made up of fire-resistant and fire-retardant materials like fibreglass or wool. Their resistance to fire allows people to protect themselves from burns and increasing temperatures. 

If someone catches fire, fire blankets are often used to smother and extinguish the flames quickly. Fire blankets prevent the further spread of fire. However, they are not 100% fireproof and require proper skills and care. Think of them as an additional resistant layer against fire while you evacuate. 

Types of Fire Blankets 

There are four different types of fire blankets available in the market. They vary from cost to material composition and the role they play in certain type of fires:

1. Fiberglass Fire Blankets

These are the commonly found fire blankets in domestic and general use. They are highly cost-effective, flexible and resistant. Often used in kitchen fires or other oil-related fires.

2. Wool Fire Blankets with Flame-Retardant Fluids

These upgraded versions with retardant liquid are also found in residential areas. However, they work more effectively for apartment-level fires. 

3. Fire-Resistant Cotton Blankets

While cotton isn’t the best option, cotton fire blankets are used in areas with higher temperatures where conventional blankets might be too suffocating. They are also used in rescue operations for quick relief as they are lightweight compared to other options. 

4. Industrial Fire Blankets 

These are found in industrial settings and are often used against electrical, chemical, oil, or any other fire emergency. 

Apart from different types, there are different classes are well. So, it is better to pay attention to the grade or class of the fire blanket: 

• Class A: Ordinary flame and combustibles. 

• Class B: Flammable liquid and gases.

• Class C: Electrical fire. 

• Class K: Kitchen fire. 

How to Use Fire Blankets?

It is pretty straightforward to use the fire blanket:

• First, the situation must be accessed, and the fire or source of fire must be located.
• Make sure to retrieve the blanket. Always store it in a place easily accessible in a fire emergency.
• Don’t rush. Take a deep breath and be cautious when approaching the fire.
• Cover the person or the item that you wish to extinguish the flames from. 
• Don’t remove the blanket. Keep it in place and pat it around if needed.

Wait for the first responders or medical professionals to take over. Don’t remove the blanket from a person by yourself. You can remove and reuse the blanket if you use it to put out the fire in general. 

Please Note: Fire blankets aren’t an invincible tool and can still catch fire. If the fire is too intense or spreading too fast, evacuating is better. Use fire blankets to cover yourself or children and elders who are prone to fire burns and harm. 

Maintain Proper Storage 

Fire Blankets don’t require intensive care or maintenance. Once you remove them from their packing, replacing them with new ones is better. Always inspect the fire blanket to ensure it hasn’t sustained any damage, wear, or tear. Always keep the same amount of fire blankets as the number of people living in the home.