EV Fire Blanket Usage Policy

Purpose of the Order

• Defines the Electric Vehicle (EV) Fire Blanket.
• Establishes the issuance of the EV Fire Blanket.
• Sets guidelines for the use, care, storage, and replacement of the EV Fire Blanket.
• The order takes effect immediately.

Policy Regarding EV Fires

• The Chicago Fire Department (CFD) strives to provide necessary tools for safe incident operation.
• EV Fire Blankets are being distributed to designated Engine Companies and other Department vehicles.
• These blankets will aid in mitigating EV fires.

Definition of the EV Fire Blanket

• It is a fire-rated thermal blanket.
• Designed to help mitigate EV fires involving lithium-ion battery thermal runaway.
• The primary purpose is to contain the fire and protect nearby exposures like vehicles.

Procedure for Distributing EV Fire Blankets

• Designated companies or response vehicles will receive one blanket per district.
• High-Rise Unit 6-4-16 will receive a blanket.
• Other companies or response vehicles may receive one, based on the Fire Commissioner's discretion.
• Upon receiving the EV Fire Blanket, Company Officers must record it in the Company Journal and inventories.
• Damages or deficiencies found during daily inspection must be reported immediately to the Company Officer.
• Damages or deficiencies requiring blanket replacement should be directed to the Division of Breathing Apparatus Service (BAS).
• Company Officers need to ensure the EV Fire Blanket is properly secured and stored on the apparatus when not in use.
• Lost, stolen, or damaged EV Fire Blankets must be reported and documented according to Department policies.

Operational Use of the EV Fire Blanket

• EV fires should be mitigated following the Department's SOP for Electric Vehicle Fires.
• The Company Officer or Incident Commander should request a company equipped with an EV Fire Blanket through OEMC if the responding Engine Company lacks one.
• The EV Fire Blanket is deployed to protect exposures at EV fires where the lithium-ion battery is on fire or at risk of thermal runaway.

Important Considerations for EV Fires

• The primary goal of the EV Fire Blanket is to contain the EV battery fire.
• Containing the fire will help prevent fire/smoke spread and damage to exposures.
• The EV Fire Blanket aids in extinguishing the EV battery fire.
• Copious amounts of water via the Under-Vehicle Nozzle and fire attack hose lines are still needed for primary extinguishment.
• The Incident Commander may use the EV Fire Blanket for conventional vehicle fires only in extreme emergencies where there's an immediate risk to exposures (e.g., significant delay in water application).
• Personnel must wear full PPE and activate their SCBA when operating at any vehicle fire.

Deployment Guidelines for EV Fire Blanket

• Use hand lines to suppress flames and protect members while pulling the blanket.
• Assess if the blanket can be safely deployed based on fire volume and proximity to obstructions.
• Remove the blanket from its pouch and unfold it in a safe area near the fire.
• If possible, approach the vehicle from the end or side with less fire involvement.
• Use manpower to grab handles, raise the blanket high, and briskly pull it over the vehicle, minimizing direct contact to avoid tears.
• Center the blanket using the marking points.
• Ensure the blanket touches the ground on all sides.
• If safe, wrap the strap around the base to weigh down the blanket and cut off oxygen; use other available objects, if necessary.
• Spray the outside of the blanket with water to cool the fire.
• Use a thermal imaging camera to monitor the fire's status.

Post-Fire Protocol

• The EV Fire Blanket is single-use only.
• Do not remove or retrieve the blanket after the fire has been contained.
• The blanket will remain with the vehicle.
• The tow truck or salvage vehicle will dispose of the blanket.

Responsibilities Regarding the Order

• Company Officers are accountable for daily inventory, inspection, and care of the EV Fire Blanket.
• Chief and Company Officers are responsible for ensuring compliance with the order's provisions.
• Chief and Company Officers must conduct Company School to ensure members know the order's provisions.
• All members are responsible for having thorough knowledge of this order.