When you think about fire safety equipment, fire extinguishers usually come to mind first.
But in many situations—especially in kitchens—a fire blanket can be just as important, and even safer to use.
So, what exactly is a fire blanket? How does it work? And where should you have one installed?
Here’s everything you need to know.
A Simple Yet Powerful Fire Safety Tool
A fire blanket is a safety device made from fire-resistant materials—usually woven glass fibre—that is designed to smother small fires by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply.
It works by physically covering the flames, stopping the chemical reaction that keeps a fire burning.
Fire blankets are compact, easy to use, and ideal for Class F fires, such as:
- 🔥 Small cooking oil or fat fires (e.g. in a frying pan)
- 🔥 Clothing fires on a person
- 🔥 Fires in bins or small containers
They don’t require pressure, chemicals, or training to operate—just a calm approach and a few simple steps.
When and Where to Use a Fire Blanket
Fire blankets are particularly useful in kitchens, where cooking fires can start quickly and escalate fast. They’re also effective in:
- Holiday lets and Airbnb kitchens
- Commercial kitchens and cafés
- School and workplace canteens
- Small boats or caravans
- Domestic kitchens
- Workshops where clothing might catch fire
Unlike fire extinguishers, fire blankets leave no residue, so they’re perfect for clean areas like food preparation spaces.
They’re also useful for wrapping around someone whose clothing has caught fire, helping to extinguish flames safely.
How to Use a Fire Blanket
Most fire blankets are stored in a red wall-mounted pouch or box with clear instructions.
To use a fire blanket:
- Pull down the tabs to release the blanket from its container
- Hold the top corners, keeping the blanket between you and the fire
- Carefully place it over the fire, completely covering the flames
- Turn off the heat source (e.g. hob or gas supply) if safe to do so
- Leave in place and do not remove until the area has cooled
If you’re using the blanket on a person, wrap it around them to smother the flames and get help immediately.
British Standards and Legal Compliance
In the UK, fire blankets should comply with BS EN 1869 – the British Standard that sets out performance and safety criteria for fire blankets used in kitchens and similar environments.
If you’re a landlord, holiday let owner, or business owner, having a compliant fire blanket in the right location could be part of your duty under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
At ESI, we always ensure fire blankets we supply and install meet the correct standards and are positioned where they’ll be most effective.
Do Fire Blankets Expire?
Yes—fire blankets have a recommended lifespan, usually around 5–7 years, depending on the manufacturer. After that, the materials may degrade or lose effectiveness, even if unused.
It’s a good idea to:
- ✅ Inspect them during annual fire safety checks
- ✅ Replace them if the outer casing is damaged or opened
- ✅ Log their presence in your fire safety folder or risk assessment
Our team at ESI can advise on replacement cycles as part of your annual fire extinguisher and equipment servicing.
Final Thoughts
A fire blanket is a small, low-cost addition to your fire safety plan—but it could make a huge difference in an emergency.
✅ Ideal for kitchens and clothing fires
✅ Easy to use, with no mess
✅ Complies with BS EN 1869
✅ Requires occasional inspection and eventual replacement
Need help choosing or installing the right fire blanket for your premises?
📞 Contact ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections today. We help landlords, businesses, and property owners across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire area keep their premises safe and legally compliant.
