Service life, inspection & replacement explained simply
A Fire blanket is part of the basic fire protection equipment - in private households as well as in companies. But how long does a Fire blanket actually last? And how can you tell whether it is still fit for use or should be replaced?
In this article, we explain how long Fire blankets can be used, which factors influence their service life and when they need to be replaced.
Table of contents
Does a Fire blanket have an expiration date?
In principle, Fire blankets do not have a statutory expiry date. Unlike fire extinguishers, they do not need to be regularly maintained or tested. However, this does not mean that they can be used indefinitely.
The recommended service life is usually 5 to 10 years, depending on the manufacturer, material, storage and area of use. Some models can also be used for longer - especially high-quality products such as those made of silicone-coated glass fiber fabric, such as those used in VLITEX Fire blankets.
What does the durability of a Fire blanket depend on?
1. material quality
High-quality materials such as silicone-coated fiberglass fabric are more durable, tear-resistant and heat-resistant than simple fiber composites.
2. storage
If the Fire blanket is stored in a dry, clean and UV-protected place (e.g. in a wall box or protective bag), it will remain ready for use for longer. Moisture, UV radiation or dust can damage the fabric or make it brittle.
3. use or mechanical load
If the blanket has already been used or is heavily soiled, damaged or hardened, it should be replaced - even if it still looks "intact" on the outside.
How can you tell whether a Fire blanket is still ready for use?
Even without statutory maintenance, Fire blankets should be visually ins pected regularly (at least once a year). Pay attention to the following points:
- Is the ceiling clean and undamaged?
- Does the material show no cracks, hardening or detachment?
- Is the packaging completely and tightly sealed?
- Are the grip straps or tabs still firmly sewn?
- Are the instructions legible and complete?
If one of these conditions is not met, the Fire blanket should be replaced as a precaution.
When should you replace a Fire blanket ?
An exchange makes sense if:
- the ceiling has exceeded the service life specified by the manufacturer
- it shows visible damage
- it has already been used once with fire incidents
- the storage was improper (moisture, UV, dirt)
- the instructions are illegible or the packaging is damaged
Even a Fire blanket does not last forever
Fire blankets are durable, low-maintenance and reliable - but do not last indefinitely. Depending on quality and storage, they can remain functional for 5 to 10 years or more. Regular visual inspections ensure that your Fire blanket is ready for use in an emergency.
After use or in the event of visible defects, the blanket should always be replaced. If you are looking for long-term quality, the tested VLITEX Fire blankets are a reliable solution for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.
