When to Use a Fire Blanket

05 Jun When to Use a Fire Blanket

Fire blankets are an essential piece of safety equipment that can be used to put out small fires quickly. They’re a great alternative to fire extinguisher training, which requires more training and knowledge.

In this article, we’ll discuss when it’s appropriate to use a fire blanket and how they work. Fire blankets are made of materials like fiberglass or wool that help smother flames by cutting off the oxygen supply.

They come in different sizes, so it’s important to choose one that is large enough for the area of the fire you’re trying to put out. Knowing when it’s appropriate to use a fire blanket is key to keeping your family and home safe.

Benefits Of Fire Blankets

A fire blanket is an effective way to put out small fires and reduce the risk of injury. They can be used to smother fires in their early stages, preventing them from spreading and causing further damage.

Fire blankets consist of a sheet of fire-resistant material, usually fiberglass or wool, that is stored in a container near potential fire sources such as stoves or grills.

When a fire starts, the user pulls out the blanket and wraps it around the source of the flames to extinguish them quickly. This prevents oxygen from reaching the fuel of the fire and cuts off its supply, effectively putting it out.

Fire blankets are a cost-effective and safe way to tackle small fires before they become more serious. In an emergency situation, they can help protect people from burns and smoke inhalation while allowing firefighters time to arrive on the scene.

Types Of Fire Blankets

As mentioned above, fire blankets are made from fiberglass or woolen materials that is woven with an aluminized fabric which effectively creates a barrier between you and the fire.

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Fire blankets come in two types: fixed-point fire blankets and throw-over fire blankets.

Fixed-point fire blankets are designed to be pe rmanently mounted to walls, ceilings or other suitable surfaces in areas where there is a risk of fire. They are typically used in kitchens, warehouses and other public spaces.

Throw-over fire blankets, on the other hand, are usually made of woolen material that can easily be thrown over any type of flame or spark. These are often found in homes and offices as they provide instant protection from any type of flame or spark within reach.

Therefore, it is important to understand when to use a fire blanket depending on the type of situation you find yourself in.

Knowing which type of blanket will best suit your needs can help save lives and property from the dangers of fires and sparks. You should conduct a comprehensive fire safety plan 

Identifying The Right Size For Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the right size of fire blanket for your needs, it’s important to consider the size of the space you need to protect and the type of fire that may occur.

Smaller blankets are typically used in small areas such as kitchens or cars, while larger blankets may be needed for bigger spaces like offices or warehouses.

It’s also important to choose a blanket with the proper UL rating for your particular application. UL-rated blankets have been tested for quality and safety and can provide additional protection from a fire emergency.

In addition to considering the size of your space and the type of fire, you should also think about how easy it will be to use the blanket quickly in an emergency situation.

Blankets that come with straps or handles make them easier to grab, deploy, and reposition if needed.

Additionally, if you need more than one blanket, look for ones that come in packages so they can be stored together in an accessible location.

It is also important to take into account any other specific precautions or requirements you may have when selecting a fire blanket.

FIRE STRATEGY – ARE YOU ACCOUNTABLE? SPEAK TO AN EXPERT

Consider whether you need a flame-resistant material or an anti-static version if there is a risk of sparks or static electricity in your environment.

You should also check for any safety certifications or other special features offered with certain brands or models that could further enhance your protection during a fire emergency.

Steps For Using A Fire Blanket

A fire blanket is an essential piece of safety equipment that can help put out small fires and protect you from smoke and heat. Knowing how to use a fire blanket properly could save your life in an emergency situation.

First, locate the fire blanket and make sure it has not been damaged or exposed to excessive heat. The fire blanket should be hung in a clearly visible spot at all times so it’s easy to access when needed.

When ready for use, the fire blanket should be unfolded and placed over the base of the fire. Make sure to cover as much of the flames as possible without coming into contact with them yourself.

Once in place, allow the fire blanket to smother the flames until they are extinguished. Do not move or remove the blanket until you are certain that all of the flames have been extinguished and cooled off.

It is important to inspect your fire blanket regularly to ensure it is still in good condition and ready for use if needed. Fire blankets should be replaced every few years depending on usage. You should also ensure that you and your staff complete a Fire drill training course

Additionally, be sure to read any instructions included with your specific model before attempting to use it in an emergency situation.

Disposing Of A Fire Blanket Properly

Now that you understand the steps for using a fire blanket, it is also crucial to understand how to dispose of them properly.

Fire blankets are an essential tool in the event of a fire, and they should be kept in working order. Disposing of a fire blanket correctly will ensure that it can work effectively when needed.

It is important to replace your fire blanket after it has been used, as the heat and smoke from the fire may have compromised its integrity. It is recommended to replace your fire blanket every five years or after use, whichever comes first. Additionally, if there are any signs of damage such as tears or fraying fabric, it should be replaced immediately.

When disposing of a used fire blanket, make sure to fold it back up into its original packaging, if possible. If not, wrap it in newspaper and place it into an appropriate garbage container for disposal.

While disposing of a used fire blanket may seem like an insignificant task, taking the time to do so properly can help keep everyone safe in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

Using a fire blanket can be an effective way to put out a fire and keep yourself safe. It’s important to know when and how to use one, so you can be prepared in case of an emergency.

Fire blankets come in different sizes and materials, so make sure you buy the right size for your needs. When using a fire blanket, always follow the instructions carefully and remember to dispose of it properly afterwards.

With the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and your business with the help of a fire blanket.

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