Fire-Blankets are generally made from two layers of woven fiberglass fabric and an inner layer of fire retardant film. Some are made using Kevlar.
In order for a fire to burn, heat, fuel and oxygen need to be present. A fire blanket works by depriving the fire of oxygen. Small fire blankets, for use in kitchens and around the home, are folded into a quick-release contraption for ease of storage. Larger fire blankets are available for use in laboratory and industrial locations. These faux fur throws are usually mounted in vertical quick-release container so that they can be easily pulled out and used. They should be certified to the stringent requirements of BSEN 1869:1997.
Asbestos
Early fire-blankets were made of asbestos but, due to the awareness of the associated health risks, this is no longer the case. Efforts are being made in certain quarters to phase out asbestos fire blankets but, despite press and media coverage, it is believed that there may still be a significant number of these in homes; there has never been a consolidated campaign to completely get rid of them.
In the commercial sector there has been a farm more concerted effort to replace asbestos blankets, but again there is an unknown number still in use.
Great care has to be taken when decommissioning an asbestos fire blanket. Restrict access to minimize the number of people in the vicinity and ensure there is adequate lighting. For a blanket in a box with opening base, open the front and dampen with a water spray. If the blanket is in a cylinder first dampen the blanket by spraying up into the cylinder. Avoid over-wetting and creating a pool of water.
When the blanket is damp slide it into a waste container. Never unravel or shake an asbestos blanket. Ensure the floor beneath the container is clean by wiping it with a damp cloth and dispose of it together with the blanket in clear polythene sack that is taped closed.
Using a fire blanket
It is important to understand how to use a fire-blanket in the event of a emergency. Firstly, if it's a fire in the kitchen, ensure that the gas and electricity supply are switched off. After the blanket has been removed from its container it should be held by its fabric straps. The blanket should be wrapped around the hands to protect them and sleeves rolled up to so they don't ignite.
The flames should be carefully covered with the fire blanket ensuring the whole area is covered. The airflow must be effectively cut off so that the flames can be extinguished. If the flames are larger than the blanket no attempt should be made to put it out; the Emergency Services should be called immediately.
The fire blanket, or anything underneath it, should not be touched until at least an hour has passed since the flames where extinguished.