Electric vehicles have become increasingly popular, thanks to their environmental benefits and technological advancements. However, with this increased popularity comes a new set of challenges, especially when it comes to preventing and fighting fires. For those managing parking lots near or under shopping malls and airports, understanding the risks and best practices for dealing with fires caused by electric vehicles is essential.
Recent fires caused by electric cars in underground and above-ground parking lots
As the use of electric vehicles continues to grow, so do fires involving these electric vehicles. Recent events have highlighted the specific challenges and dangers posed by electric vehicle fires, especially in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls and airport parking lots.
- Luton Airport - London
On October 10, 2023, a fire destroyed a parking lot at London's Luton Airport, causing extensive damage. The incident illustrated the serious impact EV fires can have in high-traffic areas, especially when they occur in structures that were not specifically designed to handle such intense fires. (AP News)
- Fashion Outlets of Chicago - Rosemont, Illinois
On January 18, 2024, an electric vehicle caught fire in the parking lot of the Fashion Outlets in Chicago. Firefighters responded quickly, managing to contain the fire before it spread and caused significant damage. The incident highlighted the need for rapid response and effective fire suppression systems in parking lots. ( CBS News )
- San Diego, Kettner Boulevard
In March 2024, three hybrid airport shuttle vehicles were damaged after a lithium-ion battery caught fire in a parking lot, San Diego Fire-Rescue officials said. Firefighters said it took about a half-hour — which officials described as an "extended time" — to extinguish the battery fires. A hazardous materials crew was called in. ( FireRescue1 )
The challenges created by electric car fires
Electric vehicle fires are known to be more difficult to extinguish than conventional vehicle fires. Several factors contribute to this challenge, such as high temperatures, the risk of re-ignition, and toxic fumes. This is why it is important to reduce the risks associated with electric vehicle fires, especially in shopping malls and airport parking lots, where many cars are parked very close to each other.
In addition to regular maintenance and inspection of charging stations, these parking lots should be equipped with advanced fire detection and extinguishing systems, such as our fire isolator concept.
We recommend firefighters invest in specialized equipment designed to deal with electric vehicle fires, such as our fire blanket that can withstand temperatures up to 2500°C.
The challenges encountered during the recent incidents that we have shared before (and these were just a few of many) demonstrate the need for such equipment.
The effective solutions offered by Distreo
Bridgehill Fire Blankets
An alternative method that guarantees the extinguishing and elimination of any type of fire, especially electrical. Bridgehill blankets use a new technology, the basic material of these products being pyroxene. Distreo offers 3 sizes of blankets: those for cars, for forklifts/pallet trucks and those for scooters or electric bicycles.
It allows extinguishing a classic vehicle in 20-30 minutes without the use of water or extinguishers and also isolating any fire caused by electric vehicles or lithium-ion batteries until the firefighters intervene, eliminating the risk of an extensive fire and significant damage .
Present in numerous countries, with awards at various fairs for the efficiency of interventions in warehouses, underground parking lots, production areas, fire departments or car dealerships, BRIDGEHILL FIRE BLANKET is now also present in Romania through DISTREO. This product was designed and manufactured in Norway.
Learn more about the product: Fire blankets .
ConCluSIonS
Your safety doesn't wait, that's why it's vital to develop efficient fire fighting solutions. To find out more about our products, check out the product page or visit our contact/social media page.
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