MyZEVA Donates EV Fire Blanket To JBPM

The Malaysia Zero Emission Vehicle Association (MyZEVA) followed through on its call for EV importers, manufacturers, and charge point operators (CPOs) to donate EV Fire Blankets to local fire stations by setting an example.

Recently the association handed over EV Fire Blankets to the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) at its headquarters in Putrajaya.

The association aims to collect 48 more units of the EV Fire Blanket from its members by the end of 2024 for distribution to designated fire and rescue stations.

Lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles pose a significant challenge due to their difficulty to extinguish during thermal runaway. This presents a unique problem for rescue services like JBPM, which currently lack the necessary equipment.

EV Fire Blankets have been identified as an effective method for controlling such fires. The donated blankets are made of specially treated high-temperature fibreglass cloth, with an operating temperature of 700°C and a melting point of 1,600°C.

Each blanket measures 6m x 8m, weighs 39 kg, and is certified to EN13501-1 and NFPA 701 standards.

MyZEVA also brought up this matter at the recent National EV Task Force meeting chaired by MITI on July 15, 2024. MyZEVA highlighted JBPM's need for EV Fire Blankets and other critical equipment. MyZEVA also recommended that all commercial buildings keep at least two EV Fire Blankets in their main control room or guardhouse.

Additionally, MyZEVA advised EV brands in Malaysia to educate rescue personnel on how to safely disconnect circuits and move components during emergencies. This could involve engagement sessions with JBPM, similar to those conducted by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Bermaz Auto, or simply attaching QR codes to vehicles to assist rescue workers.

MyZEVA also proposed that the government allocate a special budget in 2025 for procuring EV Fire Blankets and thermal scanners, which would enhance emergency response capabilities. The effectiveness of this equipment has been demonstrated by the Singapore Civil Defence Force, which is already well-equipped to handle EV fires, unlike JBPM.

Improving JBPM's readiness is crucial for boosting consumer confidence in switching from internal combustion engine vehicles to EVs, aligning with the government's push for EV adoption. Therefore, if the government is truly looking to drive this narrative, it is about time they looked at the matter holistically rather than piecemeal.