AZ Dept. Tests New Way to Fight Electric Car Fires

Oct. 4, 2023
Scottsdale Fire is testing a ‘fire blanket’ that is made of graphite and a silicon polymer to help isolate the flames and reduce oxygen to the fire.

Scottsdale Fire and other agencies are putting a new technology to the test.

Fire agencies in the Valley hope they can use what is called a ‘fire blanket.’

AZFamily.com reports that he blanket is made of graphite and a silicon polymer to help isolate the flames and reduce oxygen to the fire.

All firefighters have to do is lay the blanket over the car and wait until the flames are out. 

Since the start of June, Scottsdale Fire said 37 Lithium fire incidents have been recorded.

“Lithium batteries are unfortunately becoming our new hazmat. When these things off-gas, the off-gas is toxic,” said Captain Dave Folio with Scottsdale Fire.

Bridgehill, the company that makes the blanket, charges up to $3,000 for the fire blanket, but it can be used multiple times.

 “It’s another tool in the toolbox right? That’s what we’re looking for,” Folio said.

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