What is the primary purpose of a fire blanket in a galley?

The primary purpose of a fire blanket in a galley is to smother flames. Fire blankets are typically made of fire-resistant material, and when placed over a fire, they cut off the oxygen supply, which is essential for combustion. This action effectively smothers the flames, allowing for a quick and safe way to extinguish smaller fires, particularly those that may occur from cooking oils or fats. Using a fire blanket can be an immediate and efficient method for handling kitchen fires, where traditional extinguishing methods may not be suitable.

The other options, while related to fire safety or heat management, do not accurately describe the specific role of a fire blanket. Absorbing heat or providing insulation may be aspects of other fire safety equipment but are not the main function of a fire blanket in the context of extinguishing fires in the galley. Additionally, while preventing fires is a critical goal in a galley environment, it does not pertain to the direct action that a fire blanket performs during an active fire situation.