The Benefits of Fire Blankets over other Fire Protection Methods

A small towel used to dampen the fire does not dampen the fire at all. It even worsens the accident. If you miss the spot, you will have to get closer to the fire and try again. Many people who have tried this method actually got severely burned. The burn was not due to contact with the fire itself but due too intense heat. Wet towels must not be included in your fire protection gadgets. To ensure fire safety, you must equip your workplace with fire blankets. What are the benefits of these blankets? Why are they better than other fire protection methods?

Unlike other fire protection methods which are effective in specific kinds of fires only, fire blankets can be used in different kinds of fires. These blankets are now recommended by fire safety experts to optimize the safety of workplaces, especially the establishments that serve food. Fire accidents in restaurants, diners, and cafes usually originate from grease or oil. Water cannot put out this kind of fire. The same is true with establishments that use oil and other combustible liquids such as automobile repair shops. A plain blanket was traditionally used to put out such fires caused by flammable liquids.

Now, modern fire blankets can do this task far more efficiently. Made with retardant materials, these especially designed blankets can easily put out the fire. These blankets are made not to easily leak, melt, and of course burn. Just like fire extinguishers, these blankets are intended to put out small fires before they turn into blazing inferno. With its special materials such fibreglass, these modern blankets can withstand even nine hundred degrees Celsius. When wrapped to someone who is caught in fire, the blanket surely keeps the person from getting burned as it breaks the triad by getting rid of oxygen. The blanket is also ideal for electrical fires caused by burning computers, television, and other appliances in your office.

To make sure that these fire blankets will be useful, they must be placed in strategic locations such as near fire exits, not in drawers which are also easily caught by fire. They must also be combined with fire safety tools such as smoke detectors to maximize their efficiency. Also, all staff members in the office must be well- informed about the proper procedures on how to use the blankets in case of fire accidents. In case a workplace is already burning and someone is trapped inside, the blanket can be worn over the head by the one who will save the trapped person. As the blanket can withstand extreme heat, it protects the person’s vital organs.   

Fire blankets are simple fire safety tools, which are as important as fire extinguishers. These blankets are intended to put out incipient fires. Though inexpensive, the usefulness of these blankets in saving people in case of fire outbreaks is remarkable. The blanket can also be reusable after being washed so it is really economical. Reusing the blanket, though, needs being checked first for confirmation. Make sure there are sufficient fire blankets near the fire escape routes of your workplace.