What Size Fire Blanket Do I Need? (1×1 vs 1.2×1.8)
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Why Fire Blanket Size Matters
Choosing the right fire blanket size is not about preference or price — it is about coverage and safety.
A fire blanket only works when it can fully cover the fire or the person involved.
Too small means exposed flames.
Too large can be harder to handle in confined spaces.
This guide explains exactly when to choose a 1×1 metre fire blanket and when a 1.2×1.8 metre fire blanket is the safer option.
The 1×1 Metre Fire Blanket – When Is It the Right Choice?
A 1×1 metre fire blanket is designed for small, localised fires.
Typical use cases:
- pan fires on kitchen hobs
- small cooking oil or fat fires
- minor fires on worktops or appliances
- BBQ and outdoor cooking incidents
This size is:
- easy to handle
- quick to deploy
- ideal for wall mounting near kitchens
Recommended placement:
- domestic kitchens
- shared kitchens
- office kitchenettes
👉 Fire Blankets for Kitchen Fires
The 1.2×1.8 Metre Fire Blanket – When Do You Need More Coverage?
A 1.2×1.8 metre fire blanket is intended for personal safety and larger coverage.
Typical use cases:
- clothing fires involving a person
- wrapping around an adult body
- covering larger fire surfaces
- added protection in higher-risk environments
This size is:
- essential for personal safety
- preferred in professional or shared environments
- suitable where human exposure is the main risk
Recommended placement:
- care facilities
- schools
- workshops
- garages
- public buildings
👉 Fire Blankets for Clothing Fires
Quick Comparison: 1×1 vs 1.2×1.8
1×1 metre
- Best for small fires
- Ideal for kitchens and BBQs
- Compact and easy to mount
1.2×1.8 metre
- Best for people and larger areas
- Required for clothing fires
- More versatile in professional settings
Many households and organisations choose both sizes for complete coverage.
Bag or Box: Does Size Affect the Choice?
Yes — size and location often determine the best packaging.
Bag version is recommended when:
- flexibility is needed
- the blanket may be moved
- storage is in cupboards, vehicles or kits
Hard box is recommended when:
- the blanket is permanently mounted
- visibility matters
- fast access is critical
- the environment is shared or professional
Larger blankets (1.2×1.8) are often paired with hard boxes in public or professional spaces.
Does Size Affect Performance?
Size does not change the fire resistance of the blanket.
Performance depends on:
- fiberglass quality
- fabric weight (GSM)
- weave and finishing
However, insufficient size limits effectiveness, regardless of material quality.
👉 Fiberglass Fire Blankets Explained: Materials, GSM and Performance
Summary: Choosing the Right Size with Confidence
Choose a 1×1 metre fire blanket when:
- fires are expected to be small
- cooking is the main risk
- space is limited
Choose a 1.2×1.8 metre fire blanket when:
- people need protection
- coverage must be guaranteed
- safety margins matter
Correct size selection is a core part of real fire safety, not an accessory choice.
Not sure what size fire blanket you need?
If you're deciding between sizes and want clear guidance, visit our quick fire blanket choosing guide to compare sizes and recommendations for European homes and workplaces.