Why Fire Blankets May Be Risky in Electric Vehicle Fires: New Research Findings
A Joint Safety Alert on EV Firefighting Tactics Two of the most respected organizations in fire safety research—the Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) and the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI)—have issued a joint notice warning of a potential explosion hazard related to the use of fire blankets during electric vehicle (EV) fire suppression. While fire blankets are often considered a quick solution for oxygen-starving flames, their use in EV fires involving battery thermal runaway may unintentionally increase danger for firefighters. AUTHOR Your Content Goes Here POSTED ON
Hurricane Helene Reveals Hidden Fire Threat: Lithium-Ion Batteries Pose Extreme Risk After Flooding
Florida Officials Sound Alarm After 16 Battery-Related Fires Post-Storm In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Florida’s Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis has issued an urgent fire safety warning: lithium-ion batteries are acting like ticking time bombs in storm-affected areas. As of October 1, 2024, the Division of State Fire Marshal has confirmed 16 fires linked to lithium-ion batteries following Helene’s storm surge—six of those involving electric vehicles (EVs). The actual number may be higher as officials continue collecting data from across the state. “Saltwater and lithium-ion batteries are a deadly mix,” said Patronis, stressing that EVs,