Can the fire blanket for cars be reused?

HOW TO KNOW IF A CAR BLANKET IS REUSABLE?

Many users ask whether car blankets are reusable. In previous articles, we discussed blankets marketed as "single-use blankets" vs. "multi-use blankets." We also mentioned that two types of fabric are used in the market to determine whether they are for single or multiple uses.

Texfire's conclusion, based on the tests conducted, is that the type of fabric used gives each blanket different thermal and mechanical properties. However, in no case can the type of fabric be used as the basis for claiming that a blanket can be used more than once.

WHAT DOES THE REGULATION SAY ABOUT REUSABLE BLANKETS?

To date, there is no regulation at the European level or in any other continent that governs this type of product. Only Germany has recently published its own standard, DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11.

This standard, which regulates the use of this product in Germany, specifically mentions blanket reuse in one of its points:

"The reuse of the blanket must be guaranteed under proper usage conditions. This requirement only applies if:

The blanket was not exposed to a fire during its use.

The blanket was not damaged during its use (e.g., tears or UV damage).

The blanket was not contaminated with chemicals or impurities (e.g., engine oil, brake fluid, extinguishing water with additives), or if it is possible to clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions to remove typical impurities (e.g., engine oil, brake fluid, extinguishing water).

If the blanket cannot be reused, it must be disposed of properly."

IF THE BLANKET HAS BEEN USED IN A FIRE, CAN IT BE REUSED?

According to this standard, if the blanket has been used during a fire, it cannot be reused. If used preventively, it must be decontaminated and free of tears before storage.

Texfire can manufacture blankets using different types of fabric according to the user's needs. However, based on the multiple tests conducted and prioritizing user safety, we recommend replacing the blanket with a new one in case of a fire. This is because numerous unpredictable factors during a fire can affect the materials from which the blanket is made, such as the level of contamination of the fabrics.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN A BLANKET IS CONTAMINATED?

When a blanket is used, whether during a fire or preventively, it is exposed to environmental elements such as dust, stones, mud, rain, etc. In the event of a fire, it is contaminated with elements and particles from the fire itself, such as melted metals and plastics that can stick to the blanket, oils, small glass shards, acids, or volatile particles, etc.

IF USED PREVENTIVELY, CAN THE BLANKET BE REUSED?

If the blanket has been used preventively, meaning it has not been in direct contact with fire, it can be reused as long as the following process is followed:

Cleaning and decontamination of the blanket: The blanket must be cleaned to remove any residue deposited on its surface, such as small glass shards, stones, dust, or mud. If there are embedded elements, they must be carefully removed without damaging the fabric.

Damage inspection: It is important to thoroughly inspect the fabric and other components (such as handles) to ensure they have not suffered cuts or scratches that could impair the blanket's use. Pay special attention to the seams.

Folding: Following Texfire's instructions, the blanket must be folded correctly. It is recommended that at least two people perform this process, as proper folding and casing are essential for emergency use.

TIPS FOR USING A CAR BLANKET

As with any safety item, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using this type of solution.

In case of fire, it is imperative to contact emergency services. They will know how to act and the steps to take to extinguish the fire properly. Moreover, emergency services are the only authorized personnel to remove the blanket from the vehicle.

If you need more information about Texfire's blanket, don't hesitate to contact our technical team.