What Makes Fire Blankets a Lifesaver Today

Imagine a small fire starts on your stove. You must act quickly. Fire blankets can put out flames in seconds. This makes them very important in kitchens and homes. You just put the blanket over the fire. This stops oxygen from reaching the fire. Look at this quick comparison:

You can trust fire blankets for fast and clean fire control.

Key Takeaways

• Fire blankets can put out small fires fast by covering them. This makes them very important in kitchens and homes. Using a fire blanket is easy. You just pull it out, put it over the fire, and wait for the fire to stop. Always keep a fire blanket where you can reach it fast, like near the stove. This helps you act quickly if there is an emergency. Check your fire blanket often for any damage. Replace it if you use it or if it looks worn out to stay safe. Fire blankets work well for small cooking fires, clothing fires, and some electrical fires. They do not work for big fires or fires from lithium-ion batteries.

What Are Fire Blankets

Definition

You may wonder what fire blankets are and why you should keep one nearby. A fire blanket is a safety device designed to put out small fires by smothering them with a non-flammable material. You can use it to stop a fire before it grows. Fire safety authorities agree on this definition:

You do not need special training to use a fire blanket. You simply place it over the fire. This action blocks oxygen, which the fire needs to keep burning.

Tip: You should always keep a fire blanket in your kitchen or near places where fires may start.

How They Work

Fire blankets work by stopping the fire’s access to oxygen. Fires need three things to burn: fuel, heat, and oxygen. This is called the fire triangle. When you cover a fire with a fire blanket, you remove the oxygen part of the triangle. The fire cannot survive without oxygen.

• You place the blanket over the flames.

• The blanket blocks air from reaching the fire.

• The material absorbs heat and cools the fuel.

• The fire goes out quickly.

Fire blankets use special materials to withstand high temperatures. Here are some common materials you will find in fire blankets:

• High-silica fabric can handle up to 1,800°F (982°C).

• Fiberglass fabric, sometimes coated with silicone or PU, can withstand up to 1,500°F (815°C).

• Vermiculite-coated fabric can resist up to 2,000°F (1,093°C).

• Aramid fiber, such as Kevlar®, can handle up to 1,000°F (537°C).

• Aluminized coating reflects up to 90% of radiant heat.

• Heat-resistant sewing thread can withstand up to 2,000°F (1,093°C).

You may hear some myths about fire blankets. Some people think they are only for professionals or that water is always better. In fact, fire blankets are useful for everyone, and using water on grease fires can make things worse. Fire blankets offer a safer solution.

You should also know that fire blankets must meet strict standards. These standards help make sure the blankets work when you need them most.

Note: Always check that your fire blanket meets the safety standards for your region.

History of Fire Blankets

Early Materials

Long ago, people used fire blankets before factories existed. Ancient people made them from wool or animal skins. Wool was good because it did not burn fast. People used these blankets to stay safe and stop small fires.

In the 1800s, new fire-resistant fabrics were made. Two main materials were used:

• Wool became common since it could stop flames and handle heat.

• Asbestos was also used. It made fire blankets better at stopping fires.

But asbestos was very dangerous for health. Many countries banned it after learning about the risks. Now, you should pick fire blankets made from safe materials.

Note: Wool is still trusted for fire safety, but today’s blankets use even better fabrics.

Key Developments

Fire blanket technology changed a lot in the last 100 years. There were some big steps forward:

• In the 1960s, makers switched from leather and wool to glass fiber cloth. This new material made fire blankets lighter and better at stopping fires.

• In 1968, Thomas Glover & Company made the first home fire blanket. They made a quick-release box so you could grab it fast.

Here is a quick look at how these changes helped at home:

In the 1980s, fire blankets became common in kitchens. Engineers made them smaller and lighter for homes. New rules, like BS 6575 in 1985, made sure your fire blanket would work when needed.

Today, you use fire blankets made with advanced materials. These changes help you trust your fire blanket to keep you safe.

Fire Blankets Today

Modern Materials

Today’s fire blankets use new and better materials. Makers use fiberglass, silicone-coated fiberglass, aramid fibers, and ceramic fiber. These materials can take very high heat. They do not break down or let out bad gases. For example, CCEWOOL® ceramic fiber blankets have a Class A fire rating. This means they can handle strong heat and still keep you safe.

Many fire blankets meet tough safety rules like NFPA 701 or UL 214. These rules make sure the blankets work well in emergencies. You can see how some materials are different in the table below:

These new materials are much safer than old ones like asbestos. Asbestos was banned in the 1970s because it was bad for health. Now, you get fire blankets that are safe and strong.

Note: Modern fire blankets are light, bendy, and easy to keep. You can grab one fast if there is an emergency.

Main Uses

You can use fire blankets in many places. They work for small fires at home, in kitchens, and in factories. Most people keep one in the kitchen for grease fires. Over 55% of homes with stoves now have fire blankets for safety. In 2023, more than 70% of U.S. commercial kitchens put them in to follow safety rules.

Here are some ways people use fire blankets today:

• Put out small fires at home, like burning pans or small electric fires.

• Cover a person if their clothes catch fire.

• Stop grease fires in kitchens, where water would make things worse.

• Keep workers and machines safe in factories, like during welding or with hot tools.

• Slow down electric car fires until help comes, but be careful because of trapped gases.

Fire blankets are useful in many places. You can use them at home, at work, or outside. They help you act fast and stay safe.

Using Fire Blankets

Application Steps

You need to know how to use a fire blanket before an emergency happens. Quick action can stop a small fire from spreading. Follow these steps if you face a kitchen fire or a small flame:

1. Turn off the gas or electricity supply right away. If you cannot do this safely, leave the room, close the door, and call the fire department.

2. Pull the fire blanket out of its container by using both fabric straps. This helps you deploy it quickly.

3. Wrap the top edge of the blanket around your hands. This protects your skin from heat and flames.

4. Roll up your sleeves to keep your clothes from catching fire.

5. Hold the blanket in front of you as a shield. Stretch it out fully.

6. Place the blanket gently over the fire. Make sure you cover the entire area so no air can reach the flames.

7. If the fire is bigger than the blanket, do not try to put it out. Leave and get help.

8. After the fire goes out, do not touch the blanket or anything under it for at least an hour. Hot surfaces can still burn you.

Tip: Practice these steps with your family. Knowing what to do can save lives.

Many people make mistakes when using fire blankets. You can avoid these errors by following some simple rules:

• Always store your blanket in a spot you can reach fast, like near the stove.

• Use both pull tabs to remove the blanket quickly.

• Cover the fire completely to block all oxygen.

• Leave the blanket in place for at least 15 to 30 minutes. This prevents the fire from starting again.

• Never use a blanket on a fire that is too large or out of control.

• Read the instructions and practice fire safety drills often.

When to Use

You should use a fire blanket for small fires that start in the kitchen, such as burning oil or fat. These are called Class F fires. Fire blankets work well for these because they smother the flames without spreading hot oil. You can also use them if someone’s clothes catch fire or for small electrical fires, but only if you can turn off the power first.

Here are some situations where a fire blanket is the best choice:

• Small cooking fires caught early, especially those involving oil or grease.

• Fires on clothing or hair.

• Fires in laboratory settings where you need to protect delicate equipment.

• When you want to avoid the mess and cleanup that comes with fire extinguishers.

• If you or someone else has trouble lifting or using a fire extinguisher, such as older adults or people with limited strength.

Note: Fire blankets do not work well for large fires or fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. These fires can release dangerous gases or keep burning under the blanket. Always call for help if you cannot control the fire right away.

Fire blankets are easy to use. You do not need special training. You just pull, cover, and wait. Fire extinguishers require you to remember the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) and know which type to use. In a stressful moment, you may find a blanket easier and faster.

Keep your fire blanket in good shape. Check it every month for tears or damage. Store it in a dry place, away from chemicals. Replace it if you see any signs of wear or after you use it.

Safety Reminder: Practice using your fire blanket and teach everyone in your home how to use it. This simple tool can help you stop a fire before it grows.

You now know that fire blankets are simple tools that can save lives. Over time, makers improved fire blankets with new materials and smart features.

1. Demand for fire safety products keeps rising.

2. Technology brings better performance and eco-friendly options.

3. Stricter rules make sure you get safe products.

More people use fire blankets at home because kitchen fires are common. You should add a fire blanket to your safety plan. This small step can make a big difference in an emergency.

FAQ

How often should you check your fire blanket?

You should inspect your fire blanket every month. Look for tears, stains, or damage. Replace it if you see any problems. Regular checks help you stay ready for emergencies.

Can you reuse a fire blanket after putting out a fire?

You should not reuse a fire blanket after it stops a fire. Heat and smoke can weaken the material. Always replace it with a new one to keep your safety strong.

Where is the best place to store a fire blanket?

Keep your fire blanket near the kitchen or any area with fire risk. Choose a spot you can reach quickly. Avoid storing it behind heavy objects or inside locked cabinets.

Are fire blankets safe for electrical fires?

You can use a fire blanket for small electrical fires if you turn off the power first. Never use it on large or active electrical fires. Call for help if you cannot control the fire.

What should you do after using a fire blanket?

Wait at least one hour before touching the blanket or anything under it. Hot surfaces can burn you. Dispose of the used blanket and clean the area when it is safe.