Most people have never needed to use a fire blanket, but they can be a vital resource when dealing with a wide variety of fires, so how do fire blankets work, and how should they be used?
Fire Blankets - Veteran Fire Safety
What Is A Fire Blanket?
Fire blankets are sheets of non-flammable, high-quality material. They can withstand up to 482°C – that’s 900°F! Fire blankets are generally classed as either light- or heavy-duty. Light-duty fire blankets are usually found within the home or the staff break room, the sort of equipment you would reach for if a frying pan caught fire. They can also be used to extinguish fires on clothing.
What Does A Fire Blanket Do?
A fire blanket smothers the fire by cutting off the supply of oxygen that is fuelling it. This works when the fire is just starting and is relatively small – a rapidly spreading or growing fire typically requires a 999 call and the appropriate extinguisher. Fire blankets work by removing one-third of the “fire triangle”, which includes fuel, heat, and oxygen. Removing one of these requirements from a fire situation will cause the fire to go out. Fire needs around 16% oxygen to burn, and the air contains about 21%, so smothering it with a fire blanket early is imperative.
How Are Fire Blankets Used?
Fire blankets should be kept in close proximity to the hazards (for example, on the wall next to the hob). There will be markings on the casing of your fire blanket with specific usage instructions – remove the blanket from the casing as directed, gently lay the blanket over the fire by keeping your hands covered and moving calmly, and leave the blanket for at least 15 minutes as you call the emergency services.
For more fire safety tips, including training on how to deal with emergencies, you can contact us at https://www.veteranfiresafety.co.uk/contact
Fire Blankets - Veteran Fire Safety
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