As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, firefighters face new challenges when responding to EV fires. Traditional firefighting methods don’t always work effectively on lithium-ion battery fires, making it crucial for emergency responders to adapt. One emerging tool in the fight against EV fires is the EV fire blanket.
What is an EV fire blanket?
An EV fire blanket is a specially designed, heat-resistant cover used to suppress fires in electric vehicles. Made from high-temperature-resistant materials, such as fiberglass or silica-based fabrics, these blankets are designed to withstand extreme heat which is necessary to contain EV fires.
Firefighters love testing new tactics and tools, but some methods simply don’t address the key issue with EV fires
How do EV fire blankets work?
- Smothering the fire: When placed over a burning vehicle, an EV fire blanket cuts off oxygen to the flames, helping to reduce the fire’s intensity.
- Containing toxic smoke: EV fires release hazardous gases, including hydrogen fluoride and carbon monoxide. The blanket helps contain these dangerous emissions, improving safety for both firefighters and bystanders.
- Preventing fire spread: Lithium-ion battery fires can spread quickly. The fire blanket acts as a barrier to prevent flames and heat from affecting nearby vehicles, buildings, or structures.
How to use an EV fire blanket
- Assess the fire: Ensure a safe approach and determine if the fire blanket is the right tool for the situation.
- Deploy the blanket: At least two firefighters should carefully pull the blanket over the burning vehicle, fully covering it.
- Wait for containment: The fire should lose intensity within minutes, but the vehicle may need to remain covered for several hours to prevent re-ignition.
- Monitor and remove: After containment, firefighters should use thermal imaging to check for residual heat before safely removing the blanket.
Limitations of EV fire blankets
- They do not fully extinguish battery fires. They mainly contain and suppress flames while mitigating risks.
- For deeply involved battery fires, additional cooling (such as submersion or prolonged water application) may still be needed.
- EV fire blankets require proper training and deployment techniques to be most effective.
In the meantime, we must work with partner agencies to develop a workable plan to contain and move the electric car
EV fire blankets are a valuable tool for modern firefighting, helping to control the spread of electric vehicle fires and reduce their hazards. While they are not a standalone solution, they offer firefighters an added layer of protection when dealing with difficult EV-related incidents.
As electric vehicle adoption continues to rise, equipping fire departments with these blankets — and the knowledge to use them effectively — can make a significant difference in improving safety and response efficiency.
First Responder Deals & Discounts
Save up to 20% off rods, fishing gear and apparel.
Save up to 20% off pet lovers, coffee lovers, military and blue line supporters, hunting, fishing and outdoor.
Save up to 20% off folding pocketknives, EDC knives and all products.
Save up to 10% off hunting and fishing apparel, gear, and home decor!
Introducing a premium body care product line that leaves you feeling refreshed, nourished, and confident all day long.
Save up to 20% off backpack and soft-side coolers.
Save up to 15% off premium boxing gear and equipment.
Save 10% off shoes and sneakers, clothing, and accessories.
Save up to 20% off green juice, red juice, happy drops, collagen.
Save 50% off meal kit and food delivery.
Save 10% off gas grills and accessories.
Save 15% off travel bags, backpacks, duffels, golf and pickleball gear.
Save up to 15% off Theodore leather backpack-bags, hunting and outdoor.
Save up to 30% off mobile, tv and audio, appliance, computing, displays and accessories.
The Wild Game Variety pack has four flavors across Elk and Bison jerky/sausage sticks.
Save up to 7% off Olympic barbells, weight plates, and men’s apparel.
Save 5% off home furniture and accessories.
Save up to 75% off learning software and e-learning platform.
Save 20% off workout apparel.
Save up to 10% off fire kits, ignition sources, tinder/fire starter.
Save 10% off ice coolers, drinkware, and other outdoor products.
Save 10% off lunch boxes, bags, and accessories.
Save up to 20% off funny golf hats, polos, and accessories.
Save 25% off men’s clothing and accessories.
Save 10% off men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.
Save up to 15% off body care, hair care and personal care products.
Save up to 15% off handcrafted boots, belts, socks, and caps.
Save 15% off men’s clothing, outerwear and jackets, coats, and accessories.
Save 150$ off resorts, beach vacations.
Save 10% off the ultimate portable chairs and accessories.
Recommended For You
Find the perfect pair of tactical glasses with our expert recommendations, focusing on safety, optical clarity and advanced protection
Recognize your dad for both his fatherly and fire service achievements by getting him one of these great gift ideas
Try one (or all) of these ideas and make movement a priority — together!
Explore the books fire leaders, FireRescue1 contributors and experts recommend to advance your career, build leadership skills and inspire the next generation
A look at discounted tech, gear and personal essentials that align with patrol and off-duty needs
The unpredictability of the job can make celebrating the holidays a logistical nightmare; here are some unique ways to stay connected
Grab these firefighter-approved turkey fryers and related equipment
Stock up at 5.11 Tactical, grab a free meal at Chili’s, and enjoy more deals honoring U.S. military and first responders
These stores and restaurants are showing their gratitude to fire and EMS professionals with an abundance of discounts
Find deals on duty gear, household supplies, electronic devices and more — but only for a limited time
On National Punctuation Day, test your knowledge of punctuation
Discover how firefighters can improve sleep and fight fatigue with simple changes like air filters, blackout curtains and humidity control
Books about the catastrophic 9/11 attacks and the long return to normalcy are crucial to the historical record of those we lost and how we moved forward
From paddleboarding and kayaking to fishing in remote areas, discover the gear, training and self-defense strategies outdoor enthusiasts need to stay safe on the water
Insulated, smart, and high-capacity bottles designed to help first responders beat dehydration on shift and beyond
