Fire Blankets for Residential and Commercial Premises
Whether for the home or business, fire safety is a critical consideration. You can never be too prepared for an emergency, and fire blankets are one such tool which has the potential to prevent injury and save lives in the event of a fire. As a leading provider of fire safety systems and associated equipment in Sydney, Astute Fire put safety first. In this blog post we will be sharing some insight on fire blankets and how to use them effectively.
What is a Fire Blanket?
You’ve no doubt seen fire blankets housed within a protective red covering on the walls of public buildings and businesses. Made of fire-resistant materials such as woven fiberglass and a fire-retardant film, fire safety blankets are designed to smother small fires by suffocating the source of oxygen. In most cases this will extinguish the fire altogether and negate the need for using a fire extinguisher.
Fire blankets can withstand extremely high temperatures, typically up to 900F. They are straightforward to use, safe and highly effective at extinguishing small fires.
Where are Fire Blankets Found?
Fire blankets are most commonly located within kitchens, as this is the space in which the majority of household fires occur. They can be used to smother grease fires, and can also be used in the event a person’s clothing catches fire. You will also find fire blankets installed within mechanic workshops, industrial zones and workplaces which are exposed to flammable liquids or are required to store hazardous materials.
It is important to note that fire blankets are not a substitute for fire extinguishers. Both items should be installed around your home or workplace, and all occupants should understand how to use them effectively to ensure the best possible chances of extinguishing a fire.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
There are 4 simple steps to take when using a fire blanket.
- Remove the packaging by pulling the two tabs to release the blanket
- Protect your hands/fingers from burns by ensuring the blanket is completely covering them
- Place the blanket directly on top of the fire. You should never throw the blanket.
- Keep the blanket in place for at least a few minutes to ensure the fire has been completely extinguished
Techniques – Fire blankets are easy to use and highly effective. There are two different ways a fire blanket may be used, depending on the circumstances.
Common usage scenarios include:
- Smothering – it is important to act as quickly as possible in the event of a fire. Fires contained within a small area (e.g. a grease fire on the stove) can be extinguished by placing the fire safety blanket over the fire, covering it completely. If the fire is too large to be smothered with the fire safety blanket, you should evacuate immediately and call the fire department.
- Wrapping – it is not uncommon for an individual’s clothing to catch fire. In this case, the fire safety blanket can be wrapped around the individual’s body to extinguish the flames and prevent further injury.
Make an Investment in Fire Safety – Call Astute Fire Today
Never underestimate the potential for an emergency. Fires can start at any moment, be prepared with a comprehensive fire system and safety equipment from Astute Fire. With a range of Australian Standards compliant fire blankets in different sizes, we invite you to contact us today to discover the right product for your needs.