Malta’s Nationwide Fire Safety Drive: Blankets & Booklets Coming Soon

Imagine this: you’re cooking dinner at home in Msida, the smell of Ħobż biż-Żejt wafting through your apartment. Suddenly, the unthinkable happens – a small flame licks the edge of your kitchen towel. Panic sets in, but then you remember – you’ve got a fire blanket tucked away in your cupboard. You grab it, smother the flame, and just like that, a potential disaster is averted.

This scenario could soon become a reality for every Maltese household. The Civil Protection Department (CPD) has announced a nationwide initiative to distribute fire blankets and booklets on accident prevention. Hot Malta brings you the lowdown on this safety drive.

Fire blankets, a compact, lightweight safety tool, are designed to extinguish small fires and wrap around a person on fire to smother flames. They’re easy to use, and once opened, they self-activate, making them perfect for homes, offices, and even cars. The CPD plans to distribute these lifesavers to every household in Malta and Gozo.

“Fire blankets are a simple yet effective way to control small fires,” says CPD Director, Martin Portelli. “We want every Maltese home to have one, so we’re making sure they’re easily accessible and affordable.”

Alongside the fire blankets, the CPD will also distribute booklets packed with practical tips on accident prevention. From fire safety to road and electrical hazards, these guides aim to empower Maltese residents with the knowledge they need to stay safe.

“Accidents happen when we least expect them,” says Portelli. “But with the right information and precautions, we can significantly reduce the risk. These booklets are a comprehensive resource for everyone.”

Hot Malta got its hands on a draft of the booklet. Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect:

• Step-by-step guides on using fire extinguishers and blankets
• Tips on preventing electrical fires, like not overloading sockets and keeping appliances away from water
• Road safety advice, including what to do in case of a car fire
• First aid basics for burns and other common injuries

The distribution of fire blankets and booklets is set to begin later this year. The CPD is working with local councils and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth rollout. Keep an eye out for updates on when you can expect your safety pack.

“We’re aiming to have every household covered by the end of 2023,” says Portelli. “But our work doesn’t stop there. We’ll be running awareness campaigns and workshops to ensure everyone knows how to use these tools effectively.”