If you’ve ever looked at that red box on a kitchen wall and wondered, “When exactly would I use a fire blanket?” — you’re not alone.

Fire blankets are one of the most straightforward fire safety tools available.

They’re compact, easy to use, and don’t involve chemicals or mess.

But knowing when and how to use them properly is key to keeping people and property safe.

Let’s take a look at what fire blankets are designed for, where they’re most effective, and how they can fit into your wider fire safety plan.

What Does a Fire Blanket Do?

A fire blanket is made of specially woven fire-resistant fabric—usually glass fibre or similar material—that’s designed to smother flames by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply.

Think of it as a simple, safe way to stop small fires at the source, especially when it’s not practical or safe to use a fire extinguisher.

Main Uses of a Fire Blanket

Small Cooking Fires

This is the most common use. If a pan catches fire while cooking—especially involving oil or fat—a fire blanket is the safest and most effective tool for smothering the flames.

Why not a fire extinguisher?
Using the wrong extinguisher (like water) on a hot oil fire can cause it to explode and spread. A fire blanket removes oxygen gently and cleanly, without spreading burning oil.

Clothing Fires

If someone’s clothing catches fire, wrapping them in a fire blanket can quickly extinguish the flames while reducing the risk of further injury.

In this case:

• Carefully wrap the person in the blanket
• Encourage them to stop, drop, and roll
• Seek medical attention immediately

This makes fire blankets particularly important in workshops, kitchens, and anywhere there’s a risk of exposed flames or heat.

Waste Bin or Small Container Fires

Fire blankets are also useful for contained fires in bins, small boxes, or equipment where the flames are localised and can be covered completely.

They’re ideal when you need to act fast, and using a fire extinguisher could create mess or damage.

Specialist Fire Blankets for High-Risk Applications

In addition to standard domestic and commercial blankets, there are also heavy-duty fire blankets designed for extreme fire risks in industrial or specialised environments.

EV Fire Blankets

Used by fire services, car dealerships, garages, and public car parks, these extra-large blankets are designed to isolate electric vehicle fires. EV fires burn at extreme temperatures and can be difficult to extinguish, so these blankets help contain the fire, reduce oxygen supply, and limit the spread of toxic smoke. They’re increasingly becoming a recommended risk control measure where EV charging takes place.

Welding and Industrial Fire Blankets

In fabrication shops, construction sites, and heavy industry, specialist fire blankets are used to protect surfaces and personnel from sparks, molten metal, and heat exposure during activities like welding or grinding. These blankets are often made from thick, layered, heat-resistant materials and are essential for hot works permits and on-site fire prevention.

Where Should Fire Blankets Be Installed?

Fire blankets should be located in easily accessible areas, especially:

• Domestic and commercial kitchens
• Staffrooms or canteens
• Holiday lets and Airbnbs
• Catering vans or mobile food units
• Laboratories or light manufacturing areas
• Student accommodation
• Workshops or welding bays

They should be wall-mounted (usually in a red casing) and positioned near the risk area—but not so close that you can’t reach it safely in a fire.

At ESI, we always ensure fire blankets are installed in line with BS EN 1869, the UK standard for fire blankets in commercial and domestic environments.

Fire Blanket Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO use them on small fires that can be covered entirely
✅ DO replace fire blankets if they’re damaged, out of date, or used
✅ DO make sure all staff or occupants know where they are and how to use them
❌ DON’T use them on large or spreading fires
❌ DON’T use them on electrical panels or equipment unless trained
❌ DON’T assume one fire blanket covers all risks—always pair with suitable extinguishers

Final Thoughts

So, what are fire blankets used for?

They’re a fast, safe, and effective way to put out small fires—especially cooking oil fires, clothing fires, and waste bin fires—without the complexity or cleanup of an extinguisher. In high-risk settings, specialist fire blankets are used for controlling EV fires, shielding equipment during welding, and adding an extra layer of fire protection in industrial environments.

✅ No mess
✅ No pressure systems
✅ Easy to store and use
✅ Available in standard and high-performance versions for different risk levels

Need advice on the right fire blanket for your premises—or want it installed properly to meet UK standards?

📞 Contact ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections today. We support businesses, landlords, and letting agents across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and throughout Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire.