Cartoon-style illustration of firefighters responding to an electric vehicle fire. A fire blanket drapes over the EV while a giant metal pot lid traps flames above it, symbolizing gas buildup under a blanket. One firefighter says, “Blanket alone? You’re just cooking up trouble!” while another says, “Grab the EV nozzle.” A fire truck and smoke-filled city scene appear in the background, emphasizing the need for active battery cooling during EV incidents.

Navigating EV Fire Response: Key Insights from the 2025 Guidance for Your SOGs

EV incidents are evolving, and 2025 guidance from national research and labor groups urges departments to reassess SOGs for suppression, scene control, and post-incident care. A key warning: blankets placed over a vehicle in thermal runaway can trap flammable gases and ignite when air returns. Water remains the primary method to cool lithium-ion packs and stabilize the incident under your AHJ’s authority.

Nov 145 min read