What is a Fire Blanket Used For? 5 Applications

Fire safety is an essential aspect of responsible homeownership. Whether you’re a seasoned safety enthusiast or a DIYer taking the first steps in learning about emergency preparedness, understanding how to handle fire hazards can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll explore the practical uses of fire blankets—a simple yet effective tool in fire safety. We promise you’ll leave with valuable insights that could one day save your home, business, or even your life.

What Is a Fire Blanket?

A fire blanket is a piece of fire safety equipment made from fire-resistant materials designed to extinguish small fires. Typically crafted from fiberglass or similar materials, these blankets work by smothering flames and cutting off the oxygen supply. Their simplicity makes them ideal for home use, especially in scenarios where fire extinguishers might not be feasible or necessary.

Fire blankets are particularly effective against small-scale fires. They’re often stored in kitchens and other areas prone to fire risks, making them accessible for quick response. 

Remember: If you have any older fire blankets, be sure to replace them, as they may contain asbestos and should not be used.

The best thing about using a fire blanket is that it does not require any special training.  Anyone can use it, and there are no complex procedures or techniques involved. Simply pull the tabs to release the blanket from its container and cover the fire, ensuring that no oxygen can reach the flames.

How to Use a Fire Blanket

Using a fire blanket is simple, but knowing the proper steps to ensure you extinguish the flames effectively is important:

1. Identify the Fire: The first step in using a fire blanket is identifying the type of fire and making sure it is small enough to be safely smothered with a blanket. If it seems too large or out of control, evacuate and call for emergency assistance.
2. Grab the Blanket: Locate the nearest fire blanket and remove it from its packaging if necessary.
3. Cover the Fire: Hold the corners of the fire blanket and cover the fire completely, making sure there are no gaps for air to enter.
4. Turn Off the Heat Source: If it is safe to do so, turn off the heat source to help control the environment and prevent the fire from reigniting.
5. Cut off Oxygen Supply: Leave the blanket in place for at least 30 minutes to ensure the fire is completely extinguished and cannot reignite.
6. Seek Medical Attention: If anyone has been injured or exposed to smoke, seek medical attention immediately.
7. Call the Fire Brigade: Even if the fire seems under control, call the fire brigade to ensure there is no risk of re-ignition and to get a professional assessment.

Can You Use Fire Blankets For All Kinds of Fires?

While fire blankets are great for small fires, they might not be suitable for all types of fires. Understanding the different classes of fire can help you determine when a fire blanket is an appropriate solution.

• Class A Fires: These are fires that involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, and cloth. To effectively extinguish a Class A fire, it is best to use water or foam extinguishers.
• Class B Fires: These are fires fueled by flammable liquids or gases such as gasoline, oil, or propane. Fire blankets made from woven fire-resistant material are best suited for this kind of blaze as they smother the flames and cut off the oxygen supply.
• Class C Fires: These are fires caused by electrical equipment, such as wiring, appliances, and outlets. When using a fire blanket on an electrical fire, make sure it is non-conductive to avoid the risk of electric shock.
• Class K Fires: These are fires involving cooking oils and fats. Fire blankets designed specifically for kitchen use are ideal for these types of blazes as they can resist high temperatures and prevent oil splashes from spreading.

Practical Applications of Fire Blankets

Now that we understand what fire blankets are and how to use them, let’s explore some common situations where they can come in handy.

For Personal Safety

Fire blankets are an invaluable resource for personal protection and safety, particularly when it comes to protecting individuals from flames. One common application is for extinguishing clothing fires.

In the event that a person’s clothes catch fire—whether from an accidental spark in the kitchen or during the handling of flammable materials—a fire blanket can be rapidly deployed to smother the flames. This swift action can prevent serious burns and injuries, allowing the affected person to safely roll on the ground while being covered by the blanket to extinguish the fire.

In addition to clothing fires, fire blankets can also be used to provide a layer of protection when escaping from a fire-affected area. Wrapping oneself in a fire blanket can help shield the body from flames and heat as individuals evacuate to safety.

For Kitchen Safety

Kitchens are notorious breeding grounds for fires. With sizzling oils, high heat, and electrical appliances working in tandem, it’s no surprise that they’re a common site for household fires. Here’s where a fire blanket becomes imperative, ready to snuff out flames before they cause significant damage.

One of the most dangerous fire types in the kitchen is a grease fire. Traditional fire extinguishers can sometimes make these worse, spreading the flames rather than putting them out. A fire blanket, however, can effectively smother a grease fire by covering the pot or pan, cutting off oxygen, and stopping the blaze in its tracks.

Electrical fires are another risk in the kitchen. Appliances an short-circuit or malfunction, leading to sparks and potential fires. A fire blanket is again an ideal solution; its non-conductive material ensures it can safely cover electrical fires without the risk of shock.

For Outdoor Cooking and BBQ

Outdoor cooking is fun, but it carries its own set of fire risks. Grills and barbecues can flare up unexpectedly, especially when fats drip onto flames, creating a hazardous situation. A fire blanket is an invaluable ally in these scenarios, providing a quick and efficient way to manage flare-ups.

When a BBQ fire gets out of control, a fire blanket can be draped over the grill to smother the flames. This action is safer and more effective than using water, which can cause grease fires to spread. Fire blankets are also handy for dealing with propane or gas leaks that catch fire, allowing you to contain the fire until further help arrives.

Keeping a fire blanket near your grill or outdoor cooking area is a proactive step towards ensuring safe and enjoyable cookouts. It offers peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for sudden emergencies.

For Car Fire Emergency

Car fires are rare but can be extremely dangerous. Having a fire blanket in your vehicle adds an extra layer of safety, giving you a tool to manage small fires until professional help arrives.

Vehicle fires can start from various sources, such as fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or overheating. In the event of a small fire, a fire blanket can be used to cover the affected area, preventing the flames from spreading to other parts of the car. This rapid intervention can minimize damage and potentially save your vehicle.

Storing a fire blanket in your car’s trunk or glove box ensures it’s always within reach when you need it most. It’s a simple yet effective solution for those unexpected emergencies on the road.

For Camping and Outdoor Activities

Camping and outdoor activities bring us closer to nature, but they also come with fire risks. Managing campfires, cooking stoves, and other heat sources requires vigilance and preparedness. A fire blanket is an essential part of any camping kit, offering safety without adding significant weight or bulk.

When camping, a fire blanket can be used to control campfire flare-ups or extinguish a fire completely once you’re finished. It’s also useful for managing cooking-related fires, especially when using portable stoves in windy conditions.

The versatility of a fire blanket makes it an indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts. It not only helps prevent wildfires but also ensures you can enjoy your adventures with greater peace of mind.

Other Uses of Fire Blankets

Aside from their primary use as a fire extinguisher, fire blankets have other practical applications as well. Here are seven alternative uses for fire blankets:

• Emergency Shelter: In case of an earthquake or other natural disaster, you can use a fire blanket as an emergency shelter by wrapping it around your body for warmth and protection.
• Heat Protection: When dealing with hot objects or materials, you can wrap them in a fire blanket to protect yourself from burns.
• Body Protection: For first responders or individuals who work in hazardous environments, a fire blanket can be used as a protective layer against heat and flames.
• Cover Up: If you need to handle hot pots or pans in the kitchen, use a fire blanket to cover them up while transporting them to avoid burns and spills.
• Emergency Signal: The reflective surface of a fire blanket can serve as an emergency signal if you are stranded outdoors and need help.

Proper Maintenance and Storage of Fire Blankets

Owning a fire blanket is just the first step; ensuring it’s ready for use when needed is equally important. Therefore, proper maintenance and storage are vital to keeping your fire blanket in optimal condition.

Check your fire blanket regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If the fabric shows any damage, it may not function correctly in an emergency and should be replaced. Keeping the blanket clean and free from debris ensures it’s ready for immediate use.

Additionally, store your fire blanket in an accessible location, such as a kitchen drawer or near exits, where it can be quickly retrieved during an emergency. Accessibility can make all the difference when seconds count.

Conclusion

Fire safety is an integral part of safeguarding your home and loved ones. Fire blankets offer a practical solution to many common fire emergencies, providing peace of mind through their simplicity and effectiveness.

Investing in a fire blanket is a small step with significant benefits. Ready access to one could mean the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. We encourage you to take action today—consider purchasing a fire blanket for your home, car, or next camping trip.

Mart Cobra’s high-quality fire blankets are suitable for various applications. Browse our selection and take the first step towards a safer, more secure environment.