Under what circumstances might a firefighter utilize a fire blanket?

A firefighter might utilize a fire blanket primarily to smother small fires or provide protection while escaping from a dangerous situation. Fire blankets are specifically designed to extinguish flames by depriving the fire of oxygen. When a firefighter encounters a small fire, using a fire blanket can effectively snuff out the flames. Additionally, if an individual is on fire, a firefighter can use the blanket to wrap around them, allowing for safe suppression of the flames.

This method is advantageous because it is straightforward, fast, and does not involve the use of water or fire extinguishers, which may not be readily available or suitable for every scenario. Fire blankets are particularly useful in situations such as kitchen fires or when dealing with flammable clothing. The other options listed, while they may involve other firefighting tools or techniques, do not accurately describe the primary purpose and practical application of a fire blanket in emergency situations.