Battling the Blaze: Firefighters Respond to Electric Vehicle Fire at Edmonds Dealership

In a dramatic scene, firefighters from South County Fire rushed to an Edmonds car dealership on Thursday morning to battle a raging fire in an unoccupied electric vehicle. The incident, which occurred around 10 a.m., highlighted the unique challenges and safety concerns associated with electric vehicle fires.

Containing the Combustion: Firefighters' Innovative Approach

Extinguishing the Flames

Firefighters arrived at the scene to find the electric vehicle engulfed in thick smoke, situated approximately 50 feet away from any nearby buildings. Utilizing their expertise, the firefighters quickly sprung into action, employing water streams to cool the fire and contain the blaze. The use of water was a crucial step in their efforts, as it helped to prevent the fire from spreading and potentially causing further damage.

Deploying the EV Fire Blanket

In addition to the traditional firefighting techniques, the responders also utilized a specialized tool – an EV fire blanket. This innovative device was designed specifically to address the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle fires. By covering the burning car with the blanket, the firefighters were able to contain the toxic fumes and prevent the fire from reigniting, a common issue with lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles.

Coordinating with Authorities

The incident was quickly upgraded to a second-alarm hazardous materials incident, reflecting the heightened concerns and specialized response required. The Washington State Department of Ecology was notified to assess the potential impact of any water runoff, ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the emergency.

Extensive Firefighting Effort

The scale of the response was significant, with more than 30 firefighters from South County Fire and Shoreline Fire departments working together to extinguish the blaze. This level of manpower was necessary due to the complexity of the situation, as electric vehicle fires can be particularly challenging to extinguish and often require additional resources and specialized equipment.

Ongoing Monitoring and Precautions

Even after the initial fire was extinguished, the firefighters remained vigilant, monitoring the vehicle throughout the afternoon. To prevent the risk of reignition, they recommended that the EV fire blanket remain in place for several days, a testament to the persistent nature of these types of incidents.

Lessons Learned and Preparedness

The Edmonds incident serves as a stark reminder of the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle fires. As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, it is crucial for fire departments and emergency responders to stay informed and equipped to handle these situations effectively. The use of specialized tools, such as the EV fire blanket, and the implementation of comprehensive response protocols are essential in ensuring the safety of both the public and the firefighters themselves.