Safe use of fire equipment remains one of the major aspects of fire safety at home and in the workplace. Every fire safety tool plays an important role in life saving, fire blankets in particular stand out due to their simplicity and effectiveness in dealing with small fires. However, to avail maximum protection, buyers must know how to choose the best one based on features, materials,, and applications. This guide aims to make a selection of the right fire blanket simple while ensuring maximum safety.
Buying A Fire Blanket: Things To Keep In Mind
1. Construction and Material
As mentioned previously, a fire blanket’s effectiveness is greatly determined by its material. Most high-quality fire blankets are constructed out of fiberglass because it is non-flammable and fire-resistant. Premium options often come with additional coatings or extra layers of material for added protection. Look for the correct certification to ensure the blanket will withstand fire and high temperatures.
2. Coverage and Size
Depending on the use there is quite a range of fire blanket sizes available From small kitchen fire blankets of 1m x 1m to 2m x 2m industrial blankets and larger. The place you plan to use the fire blanket should dictate which size you go for. Larger fire blankets have the benefit of better coverage when wrapping around a person or covering a more extensive fire.
In the home kitchen, a fire blanket measuring 1.2m x 1.2m will usually do the trick for any cooking-related fires. However, if you are in a commercial kitchen or a welding shop, you might want to consider a larger fire blanket for better coverage and protection.
3. Safety Standards and Certifications
Be sure to check if the fire blanket has recognized safety certifications like EN 1869:1997 (Europe) or ASTM F1989-05 (USA). This will guarantee their effectiveness in real fire situations. Certified blankets have passed testing and regulated standards for fire resistance and performance.
By purchasing a certified fire blanket, you are guaranteed that it is produced under rigorous quality control guidelines. This is especially beneficial in an office setting where there are strict policies in place for fire regulations. A certified product also ensures compliance with insurance and workplace safety policies.
4. Accessibility and Ease of Use
An effective Fire retardant blanket is easy to deploy during an emergency. Look for options equipped with a quick-release pouch. Instructional signage on the pouch greatly accelerates the ease of use. Some blankets with pull tabs help with faster deployment, which is vital in tense situations.
In case of an emergency, fire blankets should be stored in places that are easy to reach so that they can be used immediately. Most of them come with a wall-mounted case which lets them be placed at easy reach near stoves, fireplaces, or industrial machinery.
5. Intended Use
If you need a fire blanket for domestic use, a smaller-sized blanket would work just fine for fires ignited in the kitchen or a clothing fire. For commercial kitchens and other workplaces, industrial settings, or other larger environments, select a larger and more robust fire blanket that is better suited for larger fires.
While some fire blankets are best suited for grease fires others are specifically crafted for electrical fires. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before making a purchase though.
Where to Buy Fire Blankets?
Fire blankets are available at most online and offline stores. If buying online, only shop from trusted dealers and go through reviews from past customers to check the product’s reliability. Some trusted brands provide warranties on their fire blankets guaranteeing reliability and longevity. When buying from a physical store, make sure you ask the sellers about certifications and instructions on heat resistance and usage.
You can obtain a fire safety blanket from trusted online retailers as they provide extensive descriptions, reviews, and comparison tools, unlike local hardware stores. But, you may choose to visit a local fire safety store or a hardware retailer if you want to physically see the product.
Usage and Maintenance
To ensure the efficiency of your fire cushion or blanket, it must be stored where you can easily access it, such as in the kitchen, near an exit, or in an industrial area. Anyone within the vicinity must know how to properly use it and where it is kept. While fire blankets are low-maintenance items, it’s always smart to do routine inspections and remove any that may be damaged beyond use.
In case there is any fire blanket check for damages such as fraying edges or holes. If the cushion is torn it is recommended to replace it right away so that it functions as intended during emergencies. Some manufacturers suggest replacing fire blankets after a certain amount of time so that they remain effective, too.
Conclusion
Selecting a suitable fire blanket is a crucial preventative measure against fire-related injuries and damage. An appropriate blanket allows for easy access in case of an emergency. It is critical, however, to purchase a fire blanket that is designed for the home, office, and industrial facilities. Careful consideration of purchase will dramatically enhance fire safety and preparedness.
