HOT TOPIC: Do fire blankets work as advertised?

The fire department has been getting a lot of questions about what we think about fire blankets.

As we head into the holiday and gift-buying season, more and more people are seeing advertisements for this product and are wondering what exactly they are, how they work and if they are as effective as the commercials claim.

Here’s our take:

A fire blanket is made from fire-resistant material, usually woven fibreglass. They work by smothering the fire and cutting off its oxygen supply.

While they may be a helpful tool to extinguish small and contained fires, they may not be suitable for larger or more intense fires. As with any product available on the market, buyers need to be cautious and aware of product risks and limitations before making any purchase.

First and foremost, the focus should be on fire prevention strategies — adopting fire-safe habits and reducing risks at home, including having working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and a family home escape plan.

Think of fire blankets as one tool in the home safety toolbox. They are designed to smother small fires, preventing them from spreading further and are typically made from non-toxic, fire- resistant materials. However, as with any product on the market, not all are manufactured with the same materials, quality standards and certification.

The online market can be flooded with counterfeit or substandard products. Considering the quality of the fire blankets being sold is something to keep top of mind if considering buying one for your home or as gifts. It's essential to ensure that the product meets Canadian safety standards and regulations so always purchase from a reputable and reliable source.

Check the product for a certification label and be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. While they may be relatively easy to use if they are kept in an easily accessible spot, there’s always a chance of user error and product malfunction, which may not extinguish the fire and could lead to injury.  To use on a fire, you must move close to the fire, making your hands particularly vulnerable. Plus, you will likely have one shot at putting the fire out; if the blanket doesn’t work and the fire is not extinguished on your first attempt you can’t necessarily retrieve it.

Knowing the facts about any safety product requires some homework and buyer discretion, especially when product marketers make bold, sweeping claims to get your attention and into your wallet. Take the time to research the product and read reviews from other customers to gauge its effectiveness and reliability. There is no silver bullet when it comes to fire safety.