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How to Use a Fire Blanket: Step by Step Safety Guide
A fire blanket is one of the easiest and most effective fire safety tools for dealing with small fires. Knowing how to use a fire blanket correctly can stop a kitchen, electrical, or clothing fire before it spreads. This guide explains when to use a fire blanket, how to use it safely, common mistakes to avoid, and when a fire extinguisher is the better choice.
If you don’t already have one, explore our range of certified fire blankets designed for homes, workplaces, and vehicles.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
Follow these steps:
- Check that the fire is small and contained.
- Turn off the heat source if it is safe.
- Pull the blanket from its storage pouch.
- Fold the top edge over your hands for protection.
- Hold the blanket in front of you as a shield.
- Place it gently over the fire, covering all flames.
- Leave it in place until the fire has completely cooled.
- Call emergency services if needed.
What Is a Fire Blanket Used For?
A fire blanket works by cutting off the oxygen supply, which helps extinguish small fires quickly.
It is suitable for:
- Grease and cooking oil fires
- Small electrical appliance fires
- Clothing fires
- Small fires in bins, frying pans, or kitchen appliances
Do not use a fire blanket on large or fast-spreading fires. If the fire is producing heavy smoke, blocking your escape, or growing rapidly, leave the area immediately and call emergency services.
Before You Use a Fire Blanket
Before approaching the fire, make sure:
- The fire is small and contained.
- Your exit is clear and behind you.
- Smoke is limited.
- The fire blanket is easy to reach.
- You can safely move away if the fire grows.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
Step 1: Check the Fire
A fire blanket is designed for small fires only. If the fire is larger than a waste bin or spreading quickly, evacuate and call emergency services.
Step 2: Turn Off the Heat
If possible, switch off the cooker or appliance without reaching over the flames. Never move a burning pan.
Step 3: Remove the Fire Blanket
Pull the release tabs firmly to remove the fire blanket from its pouch.
Step 4: Protect Your Hands
Fold the top edge of the blanket over your hands and wrists to protect them from heat.
Step 5: Hold the Blanket in Front of You
Use the blanket as a shield while carefully approaching the fire.
Step 6: Cover the Fire
Place the fire blanket gently over the flames, making sure the entire fire is covered. Do not throw the blanket as this can spread the flames.
Step 7: Leave It in Place
Keep the fire blanket over the fire for at least 15–30 minutes or until everything has cooled completely. Removing it too early may allow the fire to restart.
Step 8: Call Emergency Services
If there is significant smoke, damage, or any doubt that the fire is fully extinguished, contact your local fire service.
Using a Fire Blanket on Clothing Fires
If someone’s clothing catches fire:
- Tell them to stop, drop, and roll if possible.
- Wrap the fire blanket around their body, starting from the shoulders and avoiding the face.
- Press gently to smother the flames.
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor burns.
Which Fires Can a Fire Blanket Be Used On?
| Fire Type | Suitable? |
| Cooking oil fires | ✅ Yes |
| Small electrical fires | ✅ Yes |
| Paper and fabric fires | ✅ Small fires only |
| Wood fires | ✅ Small fires only |
| Gas fires | ❌ No |
| Large house fires | ❌ No |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Throwing the blanket instead of placing it gently.
- Removing it before the fire has cooled.
- Reusing a blanket after it has been used on a fire.
- Storing it where it is difficult to reach.
- Trying to fight large or spreading fires.
Where Should You Store a Fire Blanket?
Install your fire blanket:
- Near the kitchen exit.
- At a height everyone can reach.
- Away from direct heat.
- In a clearly visible location.
For more guidance, see our Fire Blanket Size Guide.
Fire Blanket vs Fire Extinguisher
A fire blanket is usually the best choice for small kitchen and clothing fires because it is quick to use and leaves no residue. A fire extinguisher is more suitable for larger fires or situations where you need to keep a safer distance.
Read our complete comparison: Fire Blanket vs Fire Extinguisher.
Inspect Your Fire Blanket Regularly
To keep your fire blanket ready for an emergency:
- Check that the storage pouch is not damaged.
- Make sure the pull tabs are easy to access.
- Replace the blanket if it has been used or damaged.
- Follow the manufacturer’s inspection and replacement recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a fire blanket be reused?
No. Replace a fire blanket after it has been used on a fire because heat can reduce its effectiveness.
Can a fire blanket be used on electrical fires?
Yes. A fire blanket is suitable for small electrical fires. If it is safe, disconnect the power source before using it.
How quickly does a fire blanket work?
A fire blanket starts smothering the flames as soon as it completely covers the fire. Leave it in place until the area has cooled.
Do I need training?
No. Fire blankets are designed for anyone to use during an emergency. Learning the correct steps before an emergency will help you act quickly and safely.
Conclusion
A fire blanket is a simple but essential fire safety tool that can help control small fires before they become serious. Keeping one in your kitchen, workplace, garage or vehicle and knowing how to use it correctly can make a critical difference during an emergency.