Fire: The fury of nature or a gift to humanity from the gods, heroes, titans, etc.. Whatever you can think of fire, there is only one absolute, undeniable truth: you don’t play with it; you respect it. Just a little mistake, and fire will take over and show you easily who is the boss. I believe that “fire-taming”, alongside the wheel, assisted human civilization in overcoming its boundaries. In the same way that electricity has benefited humankind in its recent history. Electricity and fire are cousins, and both can be dangerous as well as beneficial. Ever since humanity recognized the benefits and drawbacks of fire, it has been seeking ways to harness it. And that was a challenging task.
Today, we have convenient and effective measures to combat hazardous fires. Still, the best way is to take proactive measures. It is better to “fight” a fire before it starts. A spark can convert into a fire in a matter of seconds. Once a fire is set, no one knows what could be at stake: buildings, equipment, files, and the most important of all: human lives. The fire department of each country is considered the most effective means against large-scale (and not only) fires. Especially in the summer season, when fires are on the rise. Respect to these people who fight against nature’s fury and try to beat the unbeatable.
But what about little fires that any one of us might have to deal with? The fire department might be the ideal scenario, but time is valuable. Small fires can be extinguished with caution without the need for the firefighting unit. Water was always effective against fires, but it is not ideal for those caused by electrical equipment. Fire extinguishers are the most popular, convenient, and effective means against small-scale fires. However, each of them has its disadvantages, particularly when used against electrical equipment.
Nowadays, fire extinguishers are either destructive (such as foam) for electrical devices or hazardous for humans (CO₂ in certain environmental conditions). And of course, you should know how to use them properly; otherwise, they can cause more problems than those they intend to solve. So, is there another way to tame the fire? A way that can still be quite effective and convenient? The answer is yes, but not without caveats: fire blankets.
What is a fire blanket?
A fire blanket is usually a fire-resistant fabric used to smother small fires or wrap around a person to protect them. It works by cutting off the oxygen supply to the fire and effectively extinguishing it (theoretically). Fire blankets are typically made from woven glass fiber and should be stored in an easily accessible area, and come in various sizes. There are single-use (low-cost) and multiple-use (more expensive) blankets. Both can be effective at the same level, but the first type should be discarded after use because its material is not intended for reuse. So, be careful with the type you will choose.
Key Uses and Characteristics:
- Extinguishing Small Fires: Fire blankets are suitable for extinguishing small, contained fires, such as those involving cooking fats, grease, or even electrical fires.
- Wrapping Around Individuals: They are also effective in wrapping around individuals whose clothing has caught fire, helping to smother the flames and prevent further injury.
- Fire-Resistant Material: Fire blankets are typically made from materials that are resistant to heat and flame, allowing them to withstand the high temperatures of a fire.
- Oxygen Deprivation: By smothering the flames, fire blankets cut off the oxygen supply, which is essential for fire to burn.
- Convenient Storage: Fire blankets are often stored in wall-mounted containers or pouches to be ensured that they are readily available in the event of an emergency.
How to use them
Fire blankets are usually stored in a red pouch and have two black tapes at the ends.
- Take a release tape in each hand and pull downwards and outwards.
- Drape the blanket over the flames to seal off air.
- Leave in position until cool.
- Always be cautious and keep a safe distance.
- In case of electrical equipment, unplug the device, if possible.
- If clothing is on fire, force the victim to the ground, wrap them in a fire blanket, call for medical aid, and treat for shock.
- You can wrap the blanket around you and, with caution, escape through a fire. Only if there is no other option, though, and avoid it if possible.
Why is it a good option for electrical devices
As I have already mentioned, all types of fire extinguishers today have core drawbacks against our valuable devices. The fire blanket fills these “holes”, but you should be aware of:
- The fire blanket should be the size of the device or at least the area on fire to be effective.
- It has a limited range, which may pose a risk.
- Unplug the device, if possible.
- It takes a bit longer to extinguish the fire, but it restricts the damage area, and no CO₂ is emitted.
- It is easier to use than a fire extinguisher.
- Only for minor fires.
- Always proceed with caution.
Epilogue
A fire blanket has both advantages and disadvantages, but depending on the case, it might be the best option. Its low cost, convenience, and low-risk effectiveness are factors to consider. Of course, it cannot wholly replace proactive measures, fire extinguishers, and the fire department, but it can be the first line of defense and be used in conjunction with the aforementioned measures. Always remember: Precaution is better than caution.
