Fire blankets, along with fire extinguishers, are devices that can be useful in the event of small fires. These non-flammable blankets can be used at temperatures up to 900 degrees and are useful for smothering small fires, as they block the supply of oxygen to the area affected by the flames. Thanks to its ease of use, a fireproof blanket can be useful for those who have no experience with fire extinguishers. Read this article to learn how to use a fire blanket to protect your home or office.
Steps
Step 1. Choose the right type of fire blanket for the situation
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The smaller fireproof blankets, often made of synthetic materials treated with fire retardant products, are the best for home use.
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The thicker blankets, made of fireproof wool fabric, are often used in industrial contexts; lately, however, manufacturers are shifting, even in these cases, to synthetic materials, which offer greater safety.
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Step 2. Read the instructions for the fire blanket before the need to use it arises
Step 3. Make sure it is always kept in an easily accessible container and can be opened quickly
- Keep it in the kitchen, as this is where most fires start.
- The faster you can reach it and use it, the greater the chances of suffocating or containing the fire.
Step 4. Protect your hands by wrapping them under the top edge of the blanket when putting out the flames
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Another way to protect your hands is to wear fireproof gloves.
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Step 5. Use the fire blanket to shield yourself as you approach the flames
Step 6. Place it over the flames
Do not throw it towards the flames: you will run the risk of missing the flames and not being able to recover it anymore
Step 7. Turn off any heat sources, such as the stove
You will see smoke pass through the blanket - this is normal
Step 8. Leave it alone until it has cooled to the touch
Step 9. If the fire blanket is not enough to put out all flames, call the Fire Department immediately from a safe place
Step 10. A freshly used fire blanket needs at least 30 minutes to cool
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After letting it cool, put it back in its original quick-opening container.
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Step 11. Wrap it around a person whose clothes have caught fire
The blanket will smother the flames without sticking to the skin
Step 12. Wrap the fire blanket around your clothes if you have to move into a burning area
Advice
Fire blankets can also be useful in places with electrical equipment and in garages where engine oil is present
Warnings
- Check the fire blanket for cracks or tears - if you find any, it's time to change it.
- The old fire retardant asbestos blankets need to be changed in any case.
- After using a disposable fireproof blanket, be sure to throw it away and buy another one. The disposable model is easily recognizable by the indications on the container ("throw away after use" or similar).
