Are fire blankets required by Australian safety standards?

Fire blankets are recommended in homes and required in some commercial settings. They should comply with AS/NZS 3504 and be positioned where they can be easily reached in a fire situation.

Where to Place Fire Blankets – Strategic Placement Guide

Q: Where should a fire blanket be placed in a home?

Fire blankets should be placed in high-risk areas like kitchens or garages, mounted near exits where they are easy to reach but not directly over heat sources.

Q: How high should a fire blanket be mounted?

Fire blankets are typically mounted between 1.2m and 1.8m above the floor to ensure they are accessible to most adults without delay in an emergency.

Q: Can a fire blanket be placed near a stove?

Place fire blankets near, but not over, stoves or cooktops. Mount them near the kitchen entrance so they remain reachable even if the fire blocks direct access to the stove.

Fire Products Direct
9 hours ago
3 min read

Optimal Fire Blanket Placement Tips for Maximum Safety

Fire blanket placement is a critical but often overlooked part of fire safety planning. Whether in a home kitchen, commercial workspace, or industrial setting, placing fire blankets strategically can mean the difference between containing a small fire and facing a major emergency.

This guide explains where to place fire blankets for instant access, why correct positioning matters, and how to align placement with Australian fire safety best practice.

Why Strategic Fire Blanket Placement Matters

Fire blankets are designed to extinguish small fires quickly by smothering flames and cutting off oxygen. However, a fire blanket is only effective if it can be reached immediately and safely.

Poor placement can result in:

Delayed response during emergencies
Increased risk of burns or smoke inhalation
Fires spreading beyond initial ignition points

Strategic placement ensures fire blankets are visible, accessible, and positioned away from direct danger.

Key Principles for Fire Blanket Placement

Before choosing specific locations, follow these universal placement rules:

Place fire blankets near high-risk fire areas, but not directly above the hazard
Ensure clear visibility with signage if needed
Install at a reachable height (generally between 1.2m and 1.8m from floor level)
Avoid locations where a user must reach through flames to access the blanket

These principles apply across residential, commercial, and industrial environments.

Where to Place Fire Blankets in High-Risk Areas

1. Kitchens (Residential & Commercial)

Kitchens are the most common location for fire blanket use due to cooking-related fires.

Recommended placement:

On a wall near the kitchen exit
Away from cooktops, ovens, and deep fryers
Easily reachable without crossing the fire source

Fire blankets are especially effective for:

Pan fires
Clothing fires
Small electrical fires (where safe)

2. Workshops and Industrial Areas

Workshops often involve flammable liquids, sparks, and heat-producing equipment.

Best placement locations include:

Near exits and escape routes
Close to welding or grinding stations (but not directly beside them)
Adjacent to fire extinguishers for layered fire protection

Ensure staff are trained to identify and use fire blankets correctly.

3. Offices and Commercial Buildings

Although fire risk may be lower, offices still benefit from well-placed fire blankets.

Ideal locations:

Kitchenettes and staff break rooms
Printing and electrical equipment areas
Near fire safety stations and exit corridors

Visibility and signage are key in shared workplaces.

4. Garages and Home Workshops

Garages often store fuels, oils, and electrical tools.

Placement tips:

Near garage entry doors
Away from fuel storage areas
Mounted securely and clearly labelled

Australian Fire Blanket Placement Guidelines

While fire blanket placement depends on risk assessment, Australian Standard AS2444 guides installation, accessibility, and mounting heights.

Best practice includes:

Ensuring fire blankets are easily reachable by occupants
Avoiding placement above heat sources
Installing in clearly visible, unobstructed locations

Always follow workplace fire safety regulations and consult a fire safety professional for compliance requirements.

How to Hang a Fire Blanket: A Complete Guide

Fire Blanket Accessibility & Maintenance

Correct placement is only effective if fire blankets are maintained.

Checklist:

Inspect blankets regularly for damage
Replace immediately if the packaging is torn or compromised
Ensure mounting brackets remain secure
Keep access areas free from obstructions

Routine checks help ensure readiness during emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where should a fire blanket be placed in a home?

Fire blankets should be placed in high-risk areas such as kitchens or garages, ideally near exits and away from direct heat sources.

How high should a fire blanket be mounted?

Fire blankets are usually mounted between 1.2m and 1.8m above floor level, making them accessible to most adults.

Are fire blankets required by law in Australia?

Fire blankets are commonly required in commercial kitchens and certain workplaces. Requirements vary by state and industry.

Can a fire blanket be placed near a stove?

Yes, but not directly above it. The blanket should be close enough for quick access without requiring the user to reach through flames.

Final Thoughts: Smart Placement Saves Lives

Fire blankets are simple, effective fire safety tools — but only when placed correctly. By positioning fire blankets strategically near high-risk areas, maintaining clear access, and following Australian safety guidelines, you significantly improve your ability to respond quickly and safely to small fires.

For workplaces and homes alike, smart fire blanket placement is a small step that delivers powerful protection.