What is the primary purpose of a fire blanket?

What is the primary purpose of a fire blanket?

A fire blanket is a highly flame-resistant blanket that can be used to extinguish a small fire or to wrap around a person in case of a fire. Fire blankets are made from 2 layers of woven glass fibre fabric and an inner layer of fire retardant film. They work by cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire.

Is a fire blanket necessary?

“Fire blankets are a useful tool in the fire safety field. They can be used to contain small to medium fires, especially in the kitchen,” Brandon Wright, public information officer, said. “However, fire extinguishers are the recommended tool to have in the kitchen to protect yourself in the event of a fire.

When would it be appropriate to use a fire blanket?

Fire blankets can be used to extinguish small fires in the home, caravan, boat or garage. They can also be used to wrap around a person whose clothes have caught alight. It is best to store fire blankets in or adjacent to a kitchen but not too close to a potential hazard for example above a stove.

What can you do with a fire blanket?

Personal clothing fires

1. Pull the tapes to release the blanket from its box.
2. Hold the blanket in a shield position and if possible wrap the blanket around your hands for protection.
3. Wrap the fire blanket around the person who is on fire to smother the flames.

Why are fire blankets not used in the OR?

Fire blankets — typically wool blankets treated with fire retardants that are placed over a fire to smother it — should never be located in an OR and should never be used for patient fires. Their use will likely cause more severe injuries to the patient.

What happens if you remove a fire blanket too soon?

This is known as the fire Triangle. If you remove any one element of the Triangle the fire will extinguish. A fire blanket that is placed over or around a burning object cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire, thereby extinguishing it.

How long should you leave a fire blanket over a small fire?

Leave the blanket in place for at least 30 minutes to an hour before removing to avoid re-ignition. After putting the blanket on the flames – leave the room, shutting the door behind you and call the fire brigade.

What should you not do with a fire blanket?

You should never attempt to throw a fire blanket over the flames. If you miss, you will not be able to retrieve the blanket to try again. Always be sure to shield yourself when you are approaching a fire. Make sure that you pay attention to your hands as you carefully place the blanket over the fire.

How do you inspect a fire blanket?

each fire blanket is correctly located in its designated place. they are all unobstructed and visible. the operating instructions are clear, legible, and face outwards. each container is not obviously damaged and that the hand-hold devices (straps) are visible and undamaged.

How do you use a fire blanket correctly?

How to use Fire Blankets

1. Turn of the heat source if it is safe to do so (Do not attempt to move the pan)
2. Pull the tapes to release the blanket from its container.
3. Hold the blanket in a shield position and if possible wrap the blanket around your hands for protection.