A fire blanket is a fire-resistant blanket used to extinguish unwanted fires.
When you have a fire breakout that you need to put out, you throw the blanket on top.
The blanket will suffocate the fire.
You should always pack a fire blanket for a camping trip, especially if you take the family.
Since I started taking the kids to my outdoor adventures, safety became even more of a priority.
Things like fire blankets are now a must-have.
It’s also essential for teaching the young ones vital survival skills.
I will tell you what the fire blanket is used for in this text, so read on.
DISCLOSURE: DisasterShelters.net is reader supported so if you buy any products featured on this site I may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my full disclosure here.
Fire Blanket Use
As you already know, the fire blanket is essential for extinguishing unwanted fires.
There are a few scenarios you can use the blanket while on an outdoor adventure.
Even if you are carrying a fire extinguisher, it’s always a good idea to bring a blanket too.
It offers additional safety in case the fire gets out of hand.
You can use the blanket when someone’s clothes catch fire.
You should immediately surround the person in the blanket.
After wrapping them, encourage the person to roll on the ground until there are no more flames.
Ensure their hands are appropriately wrapped inside the blanket.
These scenarios are common in camping trips, especially when you are setting up a firewood pit.
Try to keep the children at a safe distance from the fire. But in case this happens, have your fire blanket ready.
A fire blanket is also used to deal with cooking oil and fat fires.
If you were cooking and things turned for the worst, you should not use water to extinguish the oil fire.
If you are using a camping stove, turn off the heat source if possible before using the blanket.
You will need a fire blanket. Throw it on the fire pit and ensures it covers everything.
The fire will quickly go out without causing further damages.
The blanket can also be used to extinguish the campfire after your trip is over.
You should never leave a burning pit behind.
It can be dangerous for any wild animals present at the location, and it can cause a big wildfire.
Once you are done using the make-shift fire pit, cover it with the blanket.
Ensure the fire is entirely out before you hit the road.
What to Consider When Buying a Fire Blanket
Fire blankets are essential safety pieces for outdoor and indoor use.
For it to perform effectively, there are a few things you need to consider when buying, including:
Material
Fire blankets are made with either silicone or fibreglass materials.
Both materials are effective, but it’s still worth considering.
The main reason you have to consider the material is when it affects the weight of the blanket.
Go for the lightweight material when you are going camping.
It will make moving around easier. A heavy fire blanket can be stressful, especially in an emergency.
If it’s too heavy to carry over the fire, it won’t be helpful.
Ensure you are buying a blanket you can easily carry and throw over the fire. But because this is a significant factor, most manufacturers provide lightweight blankets.
Size
The blankets are also available in different sizes.
The common ones are one and two square metre fire blankets. But you will find larger ones too.
The one thing you have to think about when it comes to size is. The bigger the blanket, the more fire it’s capable of putting out.
If you carry a portable stove, grill or campfire in a can, a one or two-metre blanket will be okay.
Consider getting a larger blanket when you are using firewood from the campsite to set up a fire pit.
These fires are not easy to control. You may need a large piece to contain the fire outbreak.
What Is A Fire Blanket Used For?
A fire blanket is used to extinguish fires.
It’s used in the kitchen at home but can also be carried when camping and other outdoor adventures.
The main things you have to remember with a fire blanket are:
- What fire blankets are used for
- What to consider when buying a fire blanket
I am an independent safety and survival expert and consultant. I have over 15+ years of experience working with corporations and individuals to help identify, remediate and prepare for threats and and disasters. I help clients understand risks and blog about my thoughts and techniques at DisasterShelters.net