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

Jasper County Emergency Management Agency Director Jamie Robinson says thanks to funding from Shomo-Madsen-Woythaler Insurance in Newton and Grinnell Mutual in Grinnell, these specialized fire blankets have been acquired and are being distributed today to every fire department in Jasper County that’s along Interstate 80.

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

Grinnell’s Fire Department is also included in this initiative. In addition, these departments are committed to assisting neighboring jurisdictions if a situation arises outside their primary coverage area.