Summary
In this episode of the OpsTalk podcast, host Eric Linnenburger discusses the emerging challenges of battery fires, particularly those involving electric vehicles (EVs) and lithium-ion batteries, with Battalion Chiefs David Varney and Luke Gearhard. The conversation covers the development of policies for handling these incidents, the importance of education and adaptability in firefighting tactics, and the need for collaboration among fire departments. The chiefs share insights from their experiences, including case studies of recent EV fires, and emphasize the importance of safety protocols, proper equipment, and ongoing training for firefighters.


Takeaways
-Battery fires, especially from EVs, are a growing concern.
-Policies for handling EV fires are evolving based on new information.
-Education and adaptability are crucial for firefighters.
-Firefighters must be aware of the toxic gases produced by battery fires.
-Proper PPE and air supply are essential during battery fire incidents.
-Collaboration among fire departments enhances response strategies.
-Understanding the science behind battery fires can improve tactics.
-Letting a battery fire burn can sometimes be the safest option.
-Early identification of EVs can change the response approach.
-Post-incident procedures are critical for firefighter safety.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Battery Fires and Guest Introductions
04:39 Policies for Handling Battery Fires
16:11 Approaches to Photovoltaic Systems and Safety
26:27 Portable Battery Fires and Best Practices
30:38 Mitigating Lithium-Ion Battery Hazards
34:13 Understanding Thermal Runaway in Batteries
37:57 Navigating Electric Vehicle Fires
49:29 Letting It Burn: A New Approach to EV Fires
56:10 Collaborating with Tow Companies for Safe EV Handling
58:53 The Challenges of EV Vehicle Storage
01:01:23 Understanding EV Fire Risks and Safety Measures
01:04:59 Innovations in Firefighting Tactics for EVs
01:09:27 Best Practices for Responding to EV Incidents
01:14:03 Post-Incident Considerations and Safety Protocols
01:17:33 The Importance of Continuous Learning in Firefighting

Keywords
battery fires, EV fires, lithium-ion batteries, firefighting tactics, energy storage, fire safety, fire department policies, emergency response, hazardous materials, firefighter training, extinguishment, EV blankets, firefighting foam, SCBA, vapors

Links
Firehouse Fishing Company YouTube page:
https://www.youtube.com/@UC2RJDCn4V41fvrsbAzR7myA

Firehouse Fishing Company Website:
https://firehousefishingcompany.com/

Mountain View Garage Explosion:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCQ_7xDQ7Ho&list=PLqmyxWIqEauQNMW-bcstglj1Fseks_K9k

StacheD Training:
https://www.youtube.com/@UCoEAf9DqlFLAHYzog_Y21DQ

Sacramento Incidents:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-XFHdnN1tE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hO5R07NNzY

South Metro Incident:
https://youtu.be/J0gRFIbsx1E?si=HwouoQq6O1l1rEcS

FSRI Fire Blanket Testing:
https://fsri.org/research-update/experiments-studying-fire-blanket-effectiveness-control-electric-vehicle-fires-are

https://fsri.org/news/potential-hazard-involving-ev-fire-blankets

FSRI EV Experiments:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6j3GtcAfE0

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

Eric Linnenburger
linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger
elinnenb@westminsterco.gov

David Varney
dvarney@westminsterco.gov

Luke Gearhard
lgearhar@westminsterco.gov

In this episode of Ops Talk, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger and Lieutenant Ryan Meigel discuss the importance of the Hazmat team within the fire service, emphasizing leadership, motivation, and the value of involvement at both local and national levels. They explore the role of company officers in the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the significance of mentorship, and the need for collaboration in emergency responses. The conversation highlights practical takeaways for first responders and encourages younger generations to engage in specialty teams and training opportunities.

Takeaways
-Hazmat plays a crucial role in everyday fire service operations.

-Involvement in the fire service goes beyond job descriptions.

-Company officers should get involved at the national level.

-Mentorship is vital for personal and professional growth in the fire service.

-Younger firefighters should seek opportunities to learn and grow outside their positions.

-Collaboration among departments enhances emergency response effectiveness.

-Hazmat incidents are more common than perceived, requiring constant readiness.

-Encouraging a culture of involvement can motivate younger members.

-The fire service must adapt to evolving Hazmat challenges, including new technologies.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:59 Motivation and Involvement in the Fire Service
05:41 The Role of Company Officers in the IAFC
08:36 The Importance of National Involvement
10:53 Getting Involved in IAFC
12:44 Opportunities Beyond IAFC
16:20 The Value of Mentorship
18:48 Challenges for the Younger Generation
21:03 Understanding Hazmat Calls
25:59 The Evolving Nature of Hazmat Responses
27:18 The Impact of Hazmat Exposure on Firefighters
30:05 Building Interest in Hazmat Training
33:22 Onboarding and Involvement in Hazmat Teams
37:31 Regional Collaboration in Hazmat Response
40:59 Encouraging Young Firefighters to Get Involved
49:21 Motivation and Growth in the Fire Service

Contact Information:
opstalk.wfd ⁨@gmail.com⁩

Eric Linnenburger:
linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger
elinnenb@westminsterco.gov

Ryan Meigel:

Welcome to Ops Talk, Westminster Fire Department's operational training podcast.

We're here to have real conversations about fire department operations, tactics, and the people doing the work. Hosted by Deputy Chief of Operations Eric Linnenburger, each episode features firefighters, officers, and subject matter experts from within and outside the organization, discussing what truly matters on the front lines.

What you'll find here:
-Tactical discussions on evolving challenges like EV fires, hazmat response, and technical rescue

-Position and specialty team profiles that go beyond the job description
-Lessons learned from real incidents and experiences

-Honest conversations about leadership, team building, and professional growth

-Insights from both inside and outside the Westminster Fire Department

Who this is for:
Current first responders, aspiring first responders, and anyone interested in understanding modern fire service operations. Think of it as pulling up a chair at the kitchen table - real discussions, practical knowledge, and lessons we can all learn from.

New episodes at least monthly - Available in video here on YouTube and audio on all major podcast platforms.

Contact Information:
opstalk.wfd ⁨@gmail.com⁩

Eric Linnenburger:
linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger
elinnenb@westminsterco.gov