The Purpose of a Fire Blanket During a Fire Outbreak: A Simple Tool That Saves Lives

1. What Is a Fire Blanket?

A fire blanket is a safety device made of fire-resistant materials, typically fiberglass or a treated wool fabric. It's designed to smother small fires by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply.

Fire blankets are usually stored in a quick-release pouch or wall-mounted container, making them easy to access during an emergency. They are especially effective in home kitchens, labs, workshops, and commercial settings where fire risks are higher.

2. How Does a Fire Blanket Work?

Fires need oxygen, heat, and fuel to burn. A fire blanket works by:

• Covering the flames

• Blocking oxygen from reaching the fire

• Suppressing the fire’s heat

This effectively stops the chemical reaction that fuels the fire, allowing it to be extinguished safely and quickly.

3. When Should You Use a Fire Blanket?

Fire blankets are ideal for:

Small Pan or Stove Fires

If oil or grease catches fire while cooking, a fire blanket can be draped over the pan without splashing—unlike water, which can make grease fires worse.

Clothing Fires

If a person's clothes catch fire, wrapping them in a fire blanket can smother the flames and minimize burns.

Small Electrical Fires

While you should never throw water on electrical fires, a fire blanket can be used to smother them—only if safe to do so and power is disconnected.

Important: If the fire is spreading or too large, evacuate immediately and call emergency services. Fire blankets are only for small, controllable fires.

4. Key Benefits of Fire Blankets

• ✅ Quick to deploy

• ✅ No special training required

• ✅ Non-toxic and mess-free

• ✅ Safe for kitchen and household use

• ✅ Helps prevent serious injuries

Unlike fire extinguishers, fire blankets don’t require aiming or pulling pins and don’t release potentially harmful chemicals—making them ideal for quick use by anyone.

5. How to Use a Fire Blanket (Step-by-Step)

1. Pull the tabs or handles to release the blanket from its container.

2. Wrap the blanket around your hands for protection.

3. Gently lay or throw the blanket over the fire—do not flap.

4. Leave it in place for at least 15-30 minutes to ensure the fire is completely out.

5. If used on a person, stop, drop, wrap, and roll them in the blanket.

6. Where Should Fire Blankets Be Placed?

Fire blankets should be:

• Easily accessible (not locked away)

• Mounted near fire-prone areas, like:

  • Kitchens

  • Laboratories

  • Workshops

  • BBQ areas

  • Break rooms or cafeterias

Ensure all employees, family members, or building occupants know where they are and how to use them.

Conclusion

A fire blanket is a simple yet powerful tool in your fire safety toolkit. Whether you're at home or at work, having a fire blanket nearby and knowing how to use it, can help control a fire before it becomes life-threatening.

Remember: Small fires can grow fast. Be prepared, act quickly, and never take chances with fire safety.

Invest in a fire blanket. It could save a life.