Jasper County EMA Enhances Emergency Response with EV Fire Blankets on I-80

Jasper County Emergency Management, in partnership with local fire departments and key community supporters, is launching a new initiative to strengthen emergency response along the I-80 corridor. Recognizing the unique challenges electric vehicle (EV) incidents pose, Jasper County EMA identified a need for specialized fire blankets designed to manage these types of fires effectively.

Thanks to generous funding from Grinnell Mutual in Grinnell and Shomo-Madsen-Woythaler Insurance in Newton, the necessary fire blankets have been acquired and will be distributed to fire departments along I-80, including the Newton Fire Department. This added resource empowers these departments to respond more safely and effectively to EV-related incidents. Additionally, each department is committed to assisting neighboring communities when incidents extend beyond their primary coverage area.

"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."

By providing these fire blankets, Jasper County EMA and its partners are committed to enhancing public safety and response capabilities across the region. This initiative underscores the importance of local partnerships in meeting our community's evolving needs.