Fire blanket facts for kids

A fire blanket used to put out a small fire.

A fire blanket is a special type of blanket designed to help put out small fires. It's made from materials that don't burn easily, even when it gets very hot. Think of it as a superhero blanket for fires!

Like a fire extinguisher, a fire blanket is an important tool for fire safety. It can be used in places with high temperatures, like kitchens or workshops, to quickly smother flames before they get too big.

What is a Fire Blanket?

A fire blanket is a safety device used to put out small fires by cutting off their oxygen supply. Fires need three things to burn: heat, fuel, and oxygen. A fire blanket works by covering the fire and stopping the oxygen from reaching the flames. This makes the fire go out.

These blankets are made from materials like fiberglass or Kevlar, which are very strong and can handle extreme heat without catching fire themselves. They are usually stored in a quick-release container, often red, so you can grab them fast in an emergency.

How Do Fire Blankets Work?

Fire blankets work on a simple but effective principle called "smothering." When you place the blanket over a fire, it creates a barrier between the flames and the air around them. Since fire needs oxygen to keep burning, taking away that oxygen causes the fire to die out.

Imagine a candle flame. If you put a glass over it, the flame quickly goes out because it uses up all the oxygen inside the glass. A fire blanket does the same thing, but on a larger scale, for small fires. The special materials in the blanket also help to cool down the burning area, which further helps to stop the fire.

Where Are Fire Blankets Used?

Fire blankets are very useful in places where small fires might start. They are often found in:

• Kitchens: This is one of the most common places for small fires, especially from cooking oil or electrical appliances.
• Laboratories: Labs often have flammable chemicals or equipment that can overheat.
• Workshops: Places where people work with tools, welding, or flammable materials can also benefit from fire blankets.
• Caravans and Boats: These smaller spaces can be risky for fires, so a blanket is a good safety item.

They are designed for small, contained fires, not large, out-of-control blazes.

Using a Fire Blanket Safely

If you ever need to use a fire blanket, remember these steps to stay safe:

• Stay Calm: Take a deep breath.
• Pull the Tabs: Most fire blankets come in a pouch with two pull tabs. Grab these tabs and pull the blanket out.
• Protect Your Hands: Wrap the top edges of the blanket around your hands to protect them from the heat.
• Cover the Fire: Hold the blanket in front of you like a shield. Gently place the blanket over the fire, starting from the nearest edge and moving towards the back. This helps to push the flames away from you.
• Leave It On: Once the fire is covered, leave the blanket in place for at least 15 minutes. This allows the fire to cool down completely and prevents it from reigniting.
• Turn Off Heat: If the fire was caused by a stove or appliance, turn off the heat source if it's safe to do so.
• Call for Help: If the fire is too big, spreading quickly, or you are unsure, always get an adult and call your emergency services right away.

When Not to Use a Fire Blanket

While fire blankets are great for small fires, there are times when you should NOT use them:

• Large Fires: If a fire is bigger than a wastebasket, or if it's spreading quickly, a fire blanket won't be enough. You need to evacuate and call for professional help.
• Electrical Fires with High Voltage: While a fire blanket can smother an electrical fire, it's safer to use a fire extinguisher designed for electrical fires (Class C) if available, or to cut off the power first.
• Gas Fires: If a gas leak is burning, using a blanket might put out the flame but leave the gas still leaking, which is very dangerous. It's best to turn off the gas supply if safe, or evacuate and call for help.

Fire Blankets vs. Fire Extinguishers

Both fire blankets and fire extinguishers are important fire safety tools, but they work differently and are best for different types of fires.

• Fire Blankets: Best for small fires, especially those involving cooking oil (like a pan fire) or clothing. They smother the fire by removing oxygen. They don't leave a mess like some extinguishers.
• Fire Extinguishers: Come in different types for different fires (wood, electrical, liquid). They use chemicals, water, or foam to put out fires. They are more versatile for various types of fires but can be messy.

It's a good idea to have both a fire blanket and a suitable fire extinguisher in your home, especially in the kitchen, for different kinds of emergencies. Knowing how and when to use each one can make a big difference in a fire situation.

See also

In Spanish: Manta ignífuga para niños