Fire Safety Experts Share Advice on Using Fire Blankets Properly

This Fire Blanket Mistake Could Cost You Everything

A fire blanket is something many people keep tucked away in a kitchen cupboard or office wall box, ready for emergencies. But according to health and safety experts, using one incorrectly could make a dangerous situation even worse.

Experts at High Speed Training have shared key advice on what not to do with a fire blanket, warning that misunderstanding how they work could lead to serious consequences.

Dr Richard Anderson, Learning Experience Director at High Speed Training, explained:

“Fire blankets are incredibly effective, but they aren’t ‘one size fits all’. They work on a simple scientific principle: removing oxygen. If you use them incorrectly, you aren’t just failing to put out the fire, you’re potentially feeding it or injuring yourself in the process”

When a Fire Blanket Should Not Be Used

One of the most important warnings is not to use a fire blanket on a large or spreading fire. These blankets are designed for small, contained fires such as those involving stovetops or oil pans.

Richard said:

“If the flames are taller than you or spreading across the room, put the blanket down and get out. Fire blankets are for small stovetop fires or oil pans. Trying to tackle a large fire with a blanket is like trying to stop a flood with a towel. It won’t work, and you’re putting yourself in danger for far too long.”

Why Throwing a Blanket Can Make Things Worse

In a moment of panic, it might feel natural to throw the blanket onto the flames. However, this can actually make the situation more dangerous.

Richard explained:

“When you throw a blanket, you create a gust of air that can actually fan the flames or splash burning oil onto yourself.”

Instead, the advice is to wrap the blanket’s corners around your hands for protection and carefully place it over the fire to seal it off from oxygen.

The Risk of Checking Too Soon

Another common mistake is lifting the blanket too early to check if the fire has gone out.

Richard said:

“By lifting that blanket, you’re reintroducing oxygen to a heat source. This can cause a ‘re-flash,’ where the fire reignites instantly and aggressively.”

The guidance is to leave the blanket in place for at least 15 minutes to allow the heat to fully dissipate, even if the flames appear to have gone.

Why Fire Blankets Should Never Be Reused

Even if a fire blanket looks undamaged after use, it should not be used again.

Richard explained:

“Fire blankets are single-use safety devices. Once the fabric has been exposed to extreme heat or chemical residues from a fire, its structural integrity is compromised. If you use it once, it has done its job. Dispose of it and buy a new one immediately.”

How to Use a Fire Blanket Safely

High Speed Training also shared step-by-step guidance for safe use:

• If it is safe, turn off the heat source
• Pull the tabs to remove the blanket from its pouch
• Wrap the corners around your hands for protection
• Place the blanket over a small fire and leave it for at least 15 minutes
• If clothing is on fire, wrap the blanket around the person and instruct them to stop, drop and roll

Richard added:

“Fire safety is about confidence and education. You must only use a fire blanket if you are confident in your ability to do so, as improper use can cause a fire to spread and increase the risk of harm.”

For more advice, visit the High Speed Training Hub or read their A Guide to Fire Blankets.