3 Ways to Use A Fire Blanket

The following fire blanket information explains the simplest (and often most effective) methods of dealing with small fires.

Fire blankets are nothing more than blankets which are manufactured using fire resistant or fire retardant materials. The most effective method of fire blanket use is to simply smother the flames in a small fire, cutting off the oxygen supply and preventing the fire from spreading. It makes great sense to have a fire blanket handy both at home and at work just in case there is a small fire.

Ways to Use a Fire Blanket

Fire blankets are a useful method of dealing with kitchen fires like deep fat fryers. The first thing you must do (if possible) is to turn off the heat source, then stretch the blanket out so that it is large enough to cover the whole flame. Place the fire blanket over the burning pan to smother the flames, leaving it in place for at least a half hour to make sure that the fire is out. If you were unable to switch off the heat source before you started, then switch it off as soon as you can safely do so. Then leave the room, close the door and make a telephone call to the fire brigade.

Fire blankets are also useful if a person’s clothes catch fire. Surround them in the blanket (making sure to keep your hands safely wrapped in the blanket) and encourage the person to roll on the floor until the flames have been extinguished.

Another great use for a fire blanket is to act as protection if you need to walk through a burning room. Wrap yourself, baby, child or someone else safely in the fire blanket as you pass through the fire affected area.

Ways to Not Use a Fire Blanket

If the fire is bigger than the blanket, then leave well alone. It will not be able to smother the flames. Switch off the heat source if possible then leave the room closing the door and call the fire brigade as soon as possible.

Never try to throw the blanket over a burning pan – you’re sure to miss and won’t be able to retrieve the blanket for another try.

Always be sure to shield yourself from the flames as you approach the fire, paying special attention to your hands as you carefully place the blanket over the fire.

• Source: Fireprotectiononline