Using a fire blanket

Using a fire blanket correctly is simple, but you need to get it right, because in an emergency you only have seconds. A fire blanket smothers small fires, for example burning fat in a pan or a wastepaper basket. Here you can read step by step how it works.

Using a fire blanket: step by step

• Pull the blanket out of the pouch with a firm tug on both straps.
• Hold the blanket in front of your body to protect your hands and face.
• Lay the blanket over the fire from the front. Do not throw it, or it will slip.
• Then switch off the cooker or appliance.
• Leave the blanket in place for a few minutes until everything has cooled down.
• If in doubt, call the fire brigade (112 in Europe).

What you should avoid

Do not lift the blanket too early, otherwise the fire gets air again and flares up. Never pour water on burning fat: the water evaporates instantly and hurls the fat upwards as a fireball.

Which fires is a fire blanket suitable for?

• Fat fire in a pan or pot
• Burning wastepaper basket or small fires on the table
• Clothing that has caught fire

If clothing is on fire, wrap the person in the blanket and smother the flames. Then cool the skin with water and call an emergency doctor. Replace a used blanket, as the fabric may be damaged.

Where is the best place to hang the fire blanket?

Hang the blanket clearly visible next to the cooker or at the kitchen exit. Directly above the cooker you cannot reach it safely in a fire. Fire blankets are standardised according to EN 1869. More on the topic is available on Wikipedia: Fire blanket.

Check it regularly

Once a year, check that the pouch is intact and the straps hang freely, so you can pull out the blanket immediately in an emergency.

A fire blanket does not replace a fire extinguisher; for larger fires you also need a fire extinguisher. You will find suitable blankets in the category Fire blankets. What to look for when buying is explained in the article Fire blanket for the office.