Electric vehicle (EV) fires are notoriously more complex than traditional internal combustion engine fires. The high heat, sealed battery structures, and the unique properties of lithium-ion batteries, which can ignite without an oxygen supply, present significant challenges for firefighters. Previously, methods such as submerging the vehicle in large water tanks were used to tackle such fires, but a new, more efficient approach is now gaining attention.
The new method, known as the “EV fire blanket,” involves covering the entire vehicle with a specially treated fabric to create an environment similar to submerging the car in a sealed water tank. This approach effectively blocks the spread of fire while minimizing water use, offering a much more efficient and sustainable way to deal with EV fires.
A Case Study: Successful Use of the EV Fire Blanket
A notable example of the EV fire blanket’s effectiveness occurred during an electric vehicle fire in Granite Falls, Washington. Upon arrival, the local fire department immediately deployed the EV-specific fire blanket and successfully managed the fire by directing water only to the bottom of the battery. This method prevented heat spread, reduced smoke, and toxic gas emissions, and minimized water usage, significantly advancing fire response protocols.
Transforming Fire Suppression Protocols
In the past, dealing with EV fires often required submerging a vehicle entirely or using hundreds of tons of water. With the introduction of the EV fire blanket, these fires can now be managed with a single, specially designed-piece of equipment. This innovation is expected to drastically improve the efficiency of emergency responses to electric vehicle fires, helping to reduce response time and resource consumption.
EV Fires: A Growing Concern, but Statistical Context Is Key
Although EV fires have become a frequent topic in the media, the actual statistics suggest a different reality. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of fires per 100,000 electric vehicles is about 25, significantly lower than the 1,530 fires per 100,000 internal combustion engine vehicles. Nevertheless, EV fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish and have a higher risk of recurrence, so enhanced fire response technologies are crucial.
A Step Forward in Fire Response Technology
The successful deployment of the EV fire blanket in Washington is a clear signal that fire response methods are evolving to keep pace with the rise of electric vehicles. Fire authorities in South Korea are already working on creating a manual for using this equipment, recognizing its low cost and high efficiency compared to traditional firefighting tools.
As the electric vehicle era advances, ensuring safety through improved fire response protocols will be just as important as the technological innovations behind EVs. Developing specialized fire suppression methods, like the EV fire blanket, will play a critical role in increasing public trust in electric vehicles and their safety on the road.
