How Big is a Thermal Blanket?

There are several thermal blanket sizes available. There are some that measure 84″ x 52″, 86″ x 54″ and 90” x 60”. Before you buy one, it is best if you understand some facts about these blankets.

Composition

These blankets are nothing like the ones you see used in bedrooms. These are made from gold plastic or thin silver sheets. They are utilized to retain body heat in case of an emergency.

How the Blankets Function

These blankets maintain the radiated heat and moisture close to the body by holding a layer insulating air. The human body loses heat from radiation. What this means is the skin surface produces heat from respiration.

Depending on the thermal blanket size, up to 90% of body heat can be retained. However, the blanket must be applied properly. Otherwise, you will not get the desired effects.

Usage

The package may come with specific instructions on how to use it. Follow them to the letter. Usually you need a warm and dry area to be able to use them. Keep in mind that these do not provide warmth the way cotton or wool blankets do.

If you are going to spend time outdoors, you need to bring other materials. For instance, you can bring a wool blanket. It can be utilized along with the emergency blanket.

Even if the blanket is big, it may not give sufficient heat if your body has a low temperature already. Usually you just need to wrap the blanket around your body. There has to be a space between the blanket and body so air can be trapped. The trapped air will function as the insulation.

Features

The thermal blanket size is not the only thing you should look at. Look for those with Mylar layering. The interior material must also be sufficient to warm the body. If you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors, get three blankets per person. There are sizes for adults and children; get the appropriate ones. There should be one for the head and one for the body.

If you expect cold weather, bring a warm sleeping bag with you. Disposable heat packs are also ideal. The additional blanket will also come in handy in case the weather becomes unfavorable.

If someone in your group is in danger of hypothermia, apply the blanket on the skin. Remove the clothing and put the blanket directly on the skin.