East Hampton Fire Department Gears up to Fight EV Fires with New Donation

In a proactive measure to combat growing safety concerns around electric vehicle (EV) fires, the East Hampton Village Fire Department is equipping its first responders with specialized gear.

In a recent resolution passed at a village board of trustees meeting, the village accepted a $15,000 donation from the East Hampton Village Foundations police, fire and EMS council to acquire Brimstone EV suppressor blanket kit, a suppressor mist kit and Honeywell mask mate particulate blocking hoods.

It is a step in the right direction to better combat the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion battery blazes. The donation comes amid a rising trend of EV fires which present a higher risk to firefighters and the surrounding areas.

Unlike gasoline powered vehicles, lithium-ion batteries burn hotter and reignite for days which happens due a chemical reaction within the battery known as thermal runaway. The primary purpose of the blanket is to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby vehicles, buildings or other combustible materials, whereas the mist suppressor goes underneath the vehicle to cool the battery.

There has been a surge in EVs around New York, including cars, delivery trucks and e-bikes. This surge has led to a significant number of casualties and consequently a need for heightened vigilance among fire departments.

The Fire Department of New York City reported 18 deaths and 268 fires in 2023, which decreased to six deaths and 277 fires caused by lithium-ion batteries as a result of preventative measures.

The adoption of these new tools by the East Hampton Fire Department highlights the broader challenges faced by firefighters due to the changing automotive landscape.