Firechief Lithshield Tough Battery fire blanket datasheet

STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO THE NFPA & FSRI JOINT NOTICE ON EV FIRE BLANKETS

IntroducƟon

We acknowledge the publicaƟon Ɵtled "Joint NoƟce Highlights PotenƟal Risk with Electric Vehicle FirefighƟng TacƟc Involving Fire Blankets" issued by the Fire ProtecƟon Research FoundaƟon (FPRF) and the Fire Safety Research InsƟtute (FSRI) on May 30, 2025. The findings contribute to the criƟcal and evolving dialogue around EV (electric vehicle) firefighƟng tacƟcs , an area where innovaƟon must proceed in parallel with evidence-based safety assessments. However, it is essenƟal to place these findings in the appropriate operaƟonal and technical context to avoid misinterpretaƟon or premature dismissal of fire blankets as a viable firefighƟng support tool when used correctly by trained professionals.

Acknowledging the Findings:

The noƟce appropriately emphasises two key risks:

1. Ongoing thermal runaway in EV baƩeries can conƟnue aŌer flame suppression. 2. Flammable gases released during thermal runaway can accumulate under fire blankets and pose a delayed igniƟon or explosion risk. These are real and important consideraƟons, but they do not consƟtute a blanket contraindicaƟon (no pun intended) to the use of fire blankets. Instead, they highlight the criƟcal importance of training, protocol, and situaƟonal awareness in EV fire incidents. EV fire blankets are not intended to stop baƩery thermal runaway or replace water-based suppression systems. Their role is targeted and specific: • To suppress open flames rapidly. • To control radiant heat to protect nearby vehicles, property, and responders. • To reduce formaƟon of smokes and toxic gases , providing safer air quality for occupants and firefighters. • To create tacƟcal Ɵme for firefighƟng personnel to assess, coordinate, and deploy addiƟonal suppression measures. A fire blanket serves as a passive fire protecƟon measure for baƩeries that are damaged or undergoing thermal runaway. Such baƩeries pose a latent fire hazard, as igniƟon may occur several hours or even days aŌer the iniƟal mechanical, electrical, or thermal stress event. Clarifying the Role and Limits of Fire Blankets

Fire blankets are a containment and control tool - not an exƟnguishment soluƟon.

Rebuƫng the Risk of Explosion from Gas AccumulaƟon

While the experimental findings are valid in controlled laboratory condiƟons, several key operaƟonal points must be considered: 1. The same risks of gas accumulaƟon exist in enclosed spaces , under vehicle bonnets, or in parking structures. This potenƟal risk is not unique to the use of fire blankets. Rather, it highlights the need for situaƟonal gas and pressure awareness , not avoidance of tools.