Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation donates EV fire blankets

The Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation, working with Jasper County Emergency Management and area fire departments, granted $8,020 to an initiative to enhance emergency responses to vehicle fires along the I-80 corridor. Emergency personnel identified a critical need for fire blankets specifically designed to manage electric vehicle (EV) fires effectively. 

Foundation funds were used to purchase four of these specialized blankets; a fifth blanket was donated by Shomo-Madsen-Woythaler Insurance in Newton. Blankets were distributed to fire departments in Grinnell, Kellogg, Newton, Colfax, and Mitchellville, allowing emergency personnel to respond more effectively to EV-related fires. These departments are also committed to helping neighboring jurisdictions if the need arises. 

“The Grinnell Mutual Group Foundation recognizes the importance of equipping our first responders with the contemporary tools needed for their jobs,” said Barb Baker, Grinnell Mutual’s director of Advertising and Community Relations. “EV fires are much harder to extinguish than gas-powered auto fires and these blankets help reduce the damage and injury caused by them. We appreciate the opportunity to assist the local emergency management agency and area fire departments in their efforts.” 

“With the increasing number of EVs on the road and the significant traffic volume on I-80, it was only logical to prioritize this initiative,” said Jamey Robinson, EMA Director. “We are incredibly grateful to Grinnell Mutual and Shomo-Madsen-Woythaler Insurance for their support, which has allowed us to take a proactive step in equipping our departments for modern challenges.”