The fire blanket vs. wet towel debate has been around for years, with many still wondering which option is more effective.

If you’re one of these people, this post is for you. Let’s settle the debate by exploring the differences between a fire blanket and a wet towel.

Fire Blanket vs. Wet Towel: How They Work

A fire blanket puts out fire by suffocating it. Oxygen is one of the three components needed to keep the fire burning. 

In addition, a fire blanket smothers flames, thanks to its fire-resistant materials. You see, a fire blanket can withstand extreme temperatures. For instance, the Emergency Fire Blanket can isolate temperatures up to 1,076°F (580°C).

On the other hand, a wet towel works by cooling the fire and starving it of oxygen. However, a wet towel can only do this to a certain degree. The water can evaporate at higher temperatures, and the towel will dry up and burn. 

Fire Blanket vs. Wet Towel: Grease Fires

You should never use a wet towel on a grease fire. Anything containing water can make a grease fire worse. A wet towel can cause the fire to splatter and spread.

On the other hand, you can use a fire blanket to stop grease fires. Fire blankets can be used on any type of fire since they are fire-resistant, don’t spread fire, and can extinguish it quickly. 

Fire Blanket vs. Wet Towel: Saving Someone on Fire

You can use a fire blanket to save someone on fire. It’s easy to use, efficiently helping people who caught fire. 

Drape it over the person and ask them to stop, drop, and roll to put out the fire quickly. Putting the person in a horizontal position also prevents the flames from burning the person’s hair and face. 

On the other hand, a wet towel isn’t recommended for personal use. It can get hot quickly and scald the person on fire. Synthetic fabric can also catch fire and melt on the person. 

Fire Blanket vs. Wet Towel: Preventing Smoke

A wet towel can help prevent smoke from coming out of a burning pot or pan by absorbing some smoke. If you use a towel to prevent smoke from coming out, make sure it is damp, not soaking wet. You should also make sure that the cloth is thick enough so it won’t catch fire. 

On the other hand, a fire blanket can effectively prevent smoke from coming out of a burning pan or pot because it is made of fire-resistant materials. It can also put out a small fire quickly, giving the smoke no chance of escaping. 

Which Is More Effective: A Fire Blanket or a Wet Towel?

A fire blanket is more effective than a wet towel. 

For one, you can use a fire blanket on any type of fire. On the other hand, you should never use a wet towel to put out a grease fire. 

You can’t also use a wet towel to save someone on fire. The towel can scald the person and melt once it’s dry. On the other hand, a fire blanket is made of fire-resistant materials that don’t burn like a wet towel. 

Conclusion

A fire blanket is more effective than a wet towel for many reasons. However, not all fire blankets are made equal.