Fire blankets

Summary

Fire blankets can be used to put out cooking fires
Mount fire blankets in every kitchen area, but not too close to the stove
Fire blankets in workplaces must be maintained and serviced according to Australian standards
CFA offers training and maintenance for fire equipment, including fire blankets

What is a fire blanket?

A fire blanket is a piece of fire-resistant fabric used to put out stovetop cooking fat fires, or to wrap around someone whose clothes are on fire.

Fire blankets are usually made of woven glass fibre and must meet Australian Standard AS/NZS 3504:2006, measuring at least 1 metre by 1 metre.

Where fire blankets should be stored

A chef in a commercial kitchen pulling the tabs to remove a fire blanket from its cover. — Fire blankets need to be stored correctly and maintained as part of your workplace Essential Safety Measures.

Attach fire blankets to the wall near the doorway of every kitchen area. Don't put fire blanket too close to the stove—it might become blocked by fire.

Fire blankets should be installed according to Australian Standard 2444 Portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets - Selection and Location.

How to use a fire blanket

Fire blankets are very effective when used properly. Make sure your staff know how to use one.

Watch how to use a fire blanket in the video below, or read how to use one in more detail.

[How to use fire blankets]

[Gentle music]

[Voice over]

On discovery of a fire, and if it's safe to extinguish, pull down sharply on the tabs hanging from the bottom of the container, to release the fire blanket.

Grab the base of the tabs, holding the blanket in front of you, with the fabric rolled back at the edges, to protect your hands.

Approach the fire, and place the fire blanket gently over the cooktop, keeping your hands and face protected behind it.

Do not throw the blanket onto the far side of the fire, as flames can run up the blanket and burn your hands.

Push the blanket down, around the stove, to cut off any oxygen and avoid dipping the blanket in oil.

Turn off the heat source and call Triple zero. Leave the blanket over the burnt area until the fire brigade arrives, or for at least 15 minutes until the heat has dissipated.

[Music fades]

Always call Triple Zero [000] and ask for FIRE after using a fire blanket, even if the fire is out.

Victorian Fire Services recommend that you only use a fire blanket if you feel physically and mentally able to use this equipment safely.