How to Choose the Right Fire Blanket for Your Home or Business

Fire blankets are one of the simplest yet most effective fire safety tools you can have in your home or workplace. Designed to smother small fires by cutting off oxygen, they’re particularly useful for extinguishing fires in kitchens and other high-risk areas. Choosing the right fire blanket is essential to ensure it’s fit for purpose and easy to use when you need it most. In this guide, we’ll explore how to select the best fire blanket for your needs and offer practical tips on using and maintaining them effectively.

 

 

What is a Fire Blanket?

A fire blanket is a sheet of fire-resistant material designed to extinguish small fires, particularly those involving cooking oils, flammable liquids, or clothing. By placing the blanket over the fire, you cut off the oxygen supply, which smothers the flames. Fire blankets are easy to use, require no special training, and are a vital addition to fire safety equipment in homes and businesses.

 

 

Why You Need a Fire Blanket

Fire blankets are invaluable in situations where a fire extinguisher may not be appropriate or safe to use. For example:

• Kitchen Fires: Ideal for grease fires caused by hot oil or fat, which can worsen if water is used.
• Clothing Fires: Can be wrapped around a person if their clothing catches fire to extinguish flames and prevent further burns.
• Small Equipment Fires: Effective for controlling small fires involving electrical equipment before they escalate.

Whether you’re equipping a family kitchen or a busy commercial environment, having a fire blanket on hand can significantly reduce fire damage and risk.

 

 

Key Considerations When Choosing a Fire Blanket

When selecting a fire blanket, there are a few important factors to keep in mind to ensure it meets your needs.

1. Size Matters

Fire blankets come in various sizes, and the right size depends on where you plan to use it.

• Small Blankets (1m x 1m): Ideal for residential kitchens or small-scale fires. These are compact and easy to handle.
• Medium Blankets (1.2m x 1.2m): Suitable for most home kitchens and small business environments.
• Large Blankets (1.8m x 1.2m or larger): Designed for commercial kitchens, industrial settings, or high-risk areas where larger flames may occur.

Tip: If you’re unsure, opt for a medium or large size to ensure adequate coverage.

2. Material Quality

Fire blankets are typically made of woven fibreglass or other fire-resistant materials. Look for:

• Durability: Ensure the material can withstand high temperatures (up to 900°C or more).
• Certifications: Check for compliance with UK and EU safety standards such as BS EN 1869:1997, which certifies that the blanket is suitable for domestic and industrial use.

3. Ease of Access and Deployment

In an emergency, quick access to your fire blanket is crucial.

• Compact Design: Choose a blanket that comes in a lightweight, wall-mounted container or pouch for easy storage and visibility.
• Simple Instructions: Ensure the container includes clear, step-by-step instructions for deployment.
• Placement: Position the blanket near high-risk areas, such as kitchens or workshops, but away from potential fire hazards to keep it accessible during emergencies.

4. Intended Use

Consider the specific risks in your environment.

• Home Use: A standard fire blanket is usually sufficient for small kitchen fires or emergencies.
• Commercial Kitchens: Look for larger, industrial-grade blankets to handle larger fires involving cooking oils or equipment.
• High-Risk Areas: If you operate in environments with flammable liquids or chemicals, ensure the blanket is rated for these specific fire types.

 

 

How to Use a Fire Blanket Effectively

Using a fire blanket correctly can make all the difference in controlling a fire quickly and safely. Follow these steps:

1. Deploy the Blanket

• Pull the blanket out of its container by gripping the tabs or handles.
• Ensure your hands are protected by the edges of the blanket to prevent burns.

2. Approach the Fire Safely

• Keep the blanket between you and the fire to shield yourself from heat and flames.
• Approach the fire cautiously, avoiding sudden movements that could spread the flames.

3. Cover the Fire Completely

• Place the blanket gently over the flames, ensuring the entire fire is covered.
• Do not lift the blanket immediately, as the fire may reignite.

4. Turn Off Heat Sources

• If safe, switch off the stove or appliance to remove the heat source.

5. Leave the Blanket in Place

• Leave the blanket over the fire for at least 30 minutes to ensure it’s fully extinguished.

6. Call Emergency Services

• If the fire isn’t extinguished quickly or starts to spread, evacuate immediately and call 999.

Tip: Never reuse a fire blanket after it has been deployed. Dispose of it safely and replace it with a new one.

 

 

Maintaining Your Fire Blanket

Regular maintenance ensures your fire blanket remains effective in an emergency:

• Inspect Periodically: Check the blanket for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination.
• Replace When Necessary: Most fire blankets have a lifespan of around 5-7 years. Replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Train Household Members or Staff: Ensure everyone knows where the fire blanket is located and how to use it.

 

 

Fire Blankets vs. Fire Extinguishers

While fire blankets and fire extinguishers both serve as fire safety tools, they have distinct uses:

• Fire Blankets: Best for small, contained fires like grease fires or clothing fires. Easier to use without special training.
• Fire Extinguishers: Effective for larger fires but require knowledge of the appropriate type (e.g., CO2, foam, or dry powder) and proper usage technique.

For comprehensive fire safety, it’s a good idea to have both in your home or workplace.

 

 

A Simple Solution for Fire Safety

A fire blanket is a simple, affordable, and effective tool for managing small fires in high-risk areas like kitchens and workshops. By choosing the right size, material, and placement, and ensuring proper usage, you can significantly enhance fire safety in your home or business.

At Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy, we’re committed to helping you protect what matters most. Contact us today for expert advice on fire protection and prevention.