A fire blanket (also known as a fire retardant blanket) is a safety device used to extinguish or control small fires. They’re often used in kitchens to extinguish flames from cooking accidents and protect people from being burned in a fire.
Most fire blankets are made of fiberglass, silicone, Kevlar, and other heat-resistant materials. They are designed to be easily wrapped around a fire to smother it.
While a fire blanket is not as effective as a fire extinguisher at extinguishing a large fire, it can be a lifesaver in an emergency involving a small fire.
Fire blankets are inexpensive and easy to use, making them an essential part of any home or office safety plan.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
A fire blanket should be stored in a place where it is easily accessible in case of an emergency. If you can safely reach the fire blanket, wrap it around the fire and pull the edges tight to smother the flames.
Keep wrapping the blanket around the fire until it is extinguished. Once the fire is out, do not remove the blanket until it has cooled completely.
If you cannot get to the fire blanket, evacuate the area and let the professionals handle it.
When to Use a Fire Blanket
A fire blanket should be used when a small fire breaks out, and you cannot safely reach a fire extinguisher. Fire blankets are also ideal for smothering grease fires in the kitchen.
If you are in a car and an engine fire starts, a fire blanket can be used to extinguish the flames.
Benefits of Using a Fire Blanket
A fire blanket is an essential piece of safety equipment for any home or office. Some of the benefits of using a fire blanket include:
- Inexpensive and easy to use
- They can be used to extinguish small fires
- Ideal for use in kitchens and cars
- They can be stored in a small space
- They are easy to carry with you when traveling
Fire Blanket vs. Fire Extinguisher
Fire blankets and fire extinguishers are both commonly used to put out small fires, but they each have their advantages and disadvantages.
Fire blankets are made of heat-resistant material and can be used to smother a fire by cutting off its oxygen supply. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to store and deploy.
However, fire blankets can only be used on small fires and may not be effective against certain types of fires.
On the other hand, fire extinguishers work by disrupting the chemical reaction that fuels a fire. They come in different types, each effective against various kinds of fires.
However, fire extinguishers can be heavy and difficult to use, and they may not always be able to completely extinguish a fire. Their external components could also malfunction after exposure to extreme cold. . There’s also a risk of malfunction and the unit accidentally exploding. . Disposing of old fire extinguishers is also more difficult than disposing of a blanket.
When choosing between a fire blanket and a fire extinguisher, you must consider the type of fire you are likely to encounter. Fire blankets are generally best for small fires, while fire extinguishers are more effective against larger ones.
How to Choose a Fire Blanket
Not all fire blankets are created equal. But with so many different types of fire blankets on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a fire blanket:
- Consider the size of the fire blanket. Smaller blankets are fine for small fires, but if you’re expecting a larger blaze, you’ll need a blanket that’s big enough to cover the entire burning area.
- Ensure the material is appropriate for the type of fire you expect. Fiberglass blankets work well for most fires, but if you’re dealing with an electrical fire, you’ll need a blanket made of Kevlar or another non-conductive material.
- Follow the instructions and check the expiration date before using any fire safety equipment.
What is a Fire Blanket Used for in a Lab?
In a laboratory setting, a fire blanket can be used to extinguish flames from Bunsen burners, alcohol lamps, and other sources of fire. It is important to have a fire blanket readily available in case of an emergency.
In the event of a fire, the blanket can be quickly thrown over the source of the flames, smothering the fire and preventing it from spreading. While a fire extinguisher can also be used to put out a fire, a fire blanket is less likely to cause damage to sensitive equipment.
How to Use a Fire Blanket in a Lab
If you use a Bunsen burner or another source of open flame in your laboratory, be sure to have a fire blanket within reach. If a fire breaks out, you should do the following:
- Wrap the blanket around the fire to smother the flames.
- Keep the blanket wrapped around the fire until it is extinguished.
- Once the fire is out, do not remove the blanket until it has cooled completely.
If you cannot reach the fire blanket, evacuate the area and let the professionals handle it.
Why You Should Use a Fire Blanket for Welding Projects
Welders are at risk for fires, as sparks can easily fly and start a blaze. A fire blanket is an essential piece of safety equipment for any welder. It can be used to extinguish small fires before they become bigger problems.
Fire blankets are also ideal for use in conjunction with welding projects. They can be placed over a welding area to prevent sparks from igniting nearby combustible materials.
When choosing a fire blanket for welding, look for one made of kevlar. This material is especially resistant to high temperatures and is ideal for a welding environment. You should also choose a fire blanket that is the right size for your needs.
