Fire Blankets

Fire Blankets

What is a fire blanket and how do they work?

A fire blanket is a highly flame-resistant blanket that can be used to either extinguish a small fire or to wrap around a person. They are made from 2 layers of woven glass fibre fabric with an inner layer of fire-retardant film.

They work by cutting off the oxygen supply (oxygen is one of the three elements that a fire needs to burn) and smothering the fire.

How to use a fire blanket.

1. Firstly, and most importantly turn off the gas or electricity supply.
2. Remove the fire blanket from its container and hold it by the fabric straps
3. To prevent burns on the hands and arms, make sure you wrap the top edges of the blanket around your hands to protect them.
4. Roll up your sleeves so they do not catch in the flames.
5. Carefully cover the flames with the fire blanket, making sure that you cover the whole area so that you can effectively cut off the airflow and extinguish the flames.
6. However, If the fire is larger than the blanket, do not attempt to put it out. GET OUT and call the fire brigade immediately.
7. DO NOT touch the fire blanket or anything underneath it until at least an hour has passed since the fire was extinguished.
8. Fire Blankets can also be used when exiting a burning building, wrap it around yourself for added protection if there are flames between you and the exit.

Safety tips.

Ensure that everyone knows where the fire blanket is stored and they know how to remove the blanket from its canister should you ever need it. It is also recommended that an identification sign is displayed alongside the blanket.