A recent Flower Mound Town Council meeting highlighted urgent safety concerns regarding electric vehicle (EV) battery fires, as local fire officials shared alarming insights from a recent summit on the issue. The discussions centered on the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries, which can reach temperatures of up to 4,000 degrees during thermal runaway incidents, significantly higher than traditional gasoline fires.

Fire Marshal Jason Bolajar emphasized the need for improved communication between fire departments and building officials to ensure that first responders are aware of energy storage systems (ESS) being installed in the community. "We didn't even realize that ESSs were going in, and that's dangerous for us and our police officers as first responders," he stated, underscoring the critical nature of this information for public safety.

The meeting also addressed the inadequacies of conventional firefighting methods when dealing with EV fires. Bolajar explained that traditional suppression techniques, such as using water, are often ineffective against the sustained chemical reactions in lithium batteries. "You can't put enough water on them," he warned, noting that these fires can reignite even after appearing to be extinguished.

In response to these challenges, the fire department is advocating for new safety measures, including better signage and protective bollards around charging stations. The council is also considering amendments to fire and building codes to address these emerging threats.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by a recent incident where 70 cars were engulfed in flames due to an EV battery fire, highlighting the potential risks to both property and lives. As Flower Mound continues to grow and embrace new technologies, officials are committed to ensuring the safety of its residents amidst these evolving challenges.