While much attention has been given to fire detection, suppression and emergency response procedures, there is growing recognition that equipment accessibility can be just as important during a critical incident.
Fire blankets designed for vehicle fires are becoming an increasingly familiar component of emergency response plans. However, the effectiveness of any fire blanket depends not only on its performance but also on how quickly it can be deployed. For large blankets intended to cover cars, vans or battery systems, storage and accessibility can present significant challenges.
This has led to growing interest in mobile storage solutions that allow fire blankets to be protected, stored close to areas of risk and moved rapidly to the scene of an incident.
Vehicle fire blankets are often substantial in both size and weight. While this is necessary to enable them to cover a vehicle effectively, it can make transportation difficult in large facilities such as car parks, transport depots, tunnels, warehouses and industrial sites.
In many locations, emergency equipment remains fixed to walls or stored in dedicated rooms. Although this approach provides protection and organisation, it can delay deployment when responders need to move equipment over significant distances.
Mobile storage systems have emerged as a practical solution, allowing fire blankets to be stored securely while remaining easy to transport. By combining weather protection, security features and manoeuvrability, they can help organisations reduce the time required to bring critical equipment to an emergency. This approach is particularly relevant for sites where vehicle movements are frequent and potential fire incidents may occur across a wide operating area.
The storage environment can have a significant impact on the condition of emergency response equipment. Exposure to rain, dust, ultraviolet light and accidental impacts can compromise equipment over time, particularly when stored outdoors or in demanding industrial environments.
To address this challenge, manufacturers have increasingly focused on robust storage systems that provide long-term protection without compromising accessibility. Rotationally moulded polyethylene cabinets and boxes have become a popular choice due to their durability, corrosion resistance and ability to withstand harsh operating conditions.
Modern storage solutions are also designed with security in mind. Locking mechanisms, access control features and clear identification markings help ensure equipment remains protected while still being readily available when needed.
As emergency planning evolves, mobility is becoming a more important consideration. Emergency responders and site operators increasingly recognise that equipment must not only be available but also capable of being transported quickly to where it is required.
This trend is reflected in the development of wheeled fire blanket storage systems, which combine equipment protection with ease of deployment. Features such as large wheels, integrated handles and ergonomic designs enable responders to move heavy blankets more efficiently, particularly across large sites or uneven surfaces.
For facilities that manage electric vehicles, fleet operations or battery storage systems, this mobility can help support faster and more effective incident response.
One notable example of this approach is the Mobile Fire Blanket Cabinet developed by Jonesco for Bridgehill. The cabinet was designed to provide secure storage and rapid deployment for vehicle fire blankets used in electric vehicle and lithium battery fire scenarios.
The project combined Bridgehill's expertise in vehicle fire blanket technology with Jonesco's experience in manufacturing protective storage solutions. The resulting cabinet incorporates weather-resistant construction, secure locking features and a wheeled design intended to improve manoeuvrability during emergencies. It is also compatible with Bridgehill's range of EV and lithium battery fire blankets.
The collaboration highlights a broader industry trend towards integrated solutions, where equipment manufacturers and fire safety specialists work together to address the practical challenges associated with emerging technologies and new fire risks.
As vehicle technologies continue to evolve, fire safety strategies will need to evolve alongside them. Effective preparedness is no longer only about having the right equipment available; it is also about ensuring that equipment is protected, accessible and easy to deploy under pressure.
Mobile fire blanket storage systems represent a practical response to this requirement. By combining durability, security and manoeuvrability, they help bridge the gap between equipment availability and emergency response, providing organisations with an additional tool to support readiness in an increasingly complex risk landscape.
About the author: Jonesco is a manufacturer of storage solutions for fire safety and emergency response equipment, supporting organisations across a wide range of sectors, including transport, infrastructure, public venues and industry.
Find out more: visit www.jonesco-plastics.com
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