Fire Blankets for Restaurants and Commercial Kitchens
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Why Fire Risk Is Higher in Commercial Kitchens
Restaurants and commercial kitchens operate under constant heat, open flames, hot oils, and high work pressure. Cooking during peak hours leaves little margin for error, while fat buildup, extractor hoods, and multiple cooking stations increase fire risk.
Most kitchen fires start small, but escalate rapidly if handled incorrectly. Fire blankets provide a fast, controlled first response that supports staff safety and limits damage.
Typical Fire Scenarios in Restaurants
Fire blankets are suitable for early-stage, contained fires, such as:
- pan fires involving cooking oils or fats
- flames limited to a single hob or fryer
- small surface fires on worktops
- clothing catching fire during cooking
In these situations, a fire blanket suppresses flames without spreading burning oil.
š How Fire Blankets Work and When to Use Them Safely
Why Fire Blankets Are Essential in Professional Kitchens
Compared to other first-response tools, fire blankets offer clear advantages:
- no water or chemicals on hot oil
- no pressure discharge that spreads flames
- intuitive use for trained and untrained staff
- minimal disruption to surrounding equipment
They are particularly effective as a first action, before evacuation or professional response.
Where to Place Fire Blankets in Restaurants
Correct placement is critical for speed and safety.
Recommended locations:
- near kitchen exits
- close to high-risk cooking areas
- visible and clearly marked
- accessible without reaching over flames
Fire blankets should never be placed directly above fryers or hobs.
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How to Use a Fire Blanket in a Commercial Kitchen
If a small kitchen fire occurs:
- switch off the heat source if safe
- retrieve the fire blanket immediately
- protect hands behind folded edges
- place the blanket over the fire from front to back
- ensure full coverage
- leave in place until completely cooled
Never use water on burning oil and never remove the blanket too early.
š How to Safely Use a Fire Blanket (Step-by-Step)
When NOT to Use a Fire Blanket
Do not use a fire blanket if:
- flames are spreading across multiple appliances
- extractor hoods or ducting are involved
- smoke blocks visibility or escape routes
- the fire cannot be fully covered
In these cases, evacuate immediately and follow emergency procedures.
Fire Classes Relevant to Commercial Kitchens
Restaurant fires typically involve:
- Class B (flammable liquids)
- Class F (cooking oils and fats)
- Class E (electrical equipment, after power isolation)
Fire blankets are suitable only for small, contained incidents.
š What Fire Classes Can a Fire Blanket Handle?
Choosing the Right Size for Restaurants
Recommended sizes:
- 1 Ć 1 metre for pan fires and hob incidents
- 1.2 Ć 1.8 metres where clothing fires or larger coverage may be required
Many restaurants use multiple fire blankets across different zones.
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Bag or Box ā What Is Best for Restaurants?
Hard box recommended for restaurants because:
- hygienic and easy to clean
- fixed wall mounting
- high visibility during service
- professional appearance
Bag version suitable when:
- used as a secondary blanket
- space is limited
- stored in mobile kitchens or catering units
Summary: A Critical First-Response Tool
In commercial kitchens, speed and correct action save lives and property. Fire blankets provide a reliable, low-risk first response for common kitchen fire scenarios when used correctly.
For restaurants, they are an essential part of professional fire safety.