Fire Blankets

A fire blanket is very effective for small fires, such as fires in a frying pan, waste bin fires or clothing. Fire blankets work by excluding air from the fire, and extinguishing it.

They are quick to use, easy to maintain and cheaper than fire extinguishers. However, to use them, you need to get close to the fire - meaning your hands will be particularly at risk of burning.

Pull out the blanket from its case. Check the fire is smaller than the blanket. Hold it well up in front of you by the top corners and keep your hands tucked in behind the blanket. Place it over the fire and smother it. Don't take it back off for half an hour! That will let the material cool down.