Alford Community Organization Funds Specialized Fire Blanket for VFD

By: Shelia Mader

The Alford Community Organization continues to prove itself as one of the most active and community driven groups in Jackson County. Month after month, the organization finds meaningful ways to give back to the town of Alford and its residents.

Most recently, the group funded and purchased a specialized fire blanket for the Alford Volunteer Fire Department. The equipment is specifically designed to address fires involving electric vehicles, which present unique challenges for first responders.

Unlike traditional gasoline engine fires, electric vehicle battery fires involve a chemical reaction known as thermal runaway. These fires cannot be extinguished with water alone and can reignite if not properly contained. The fire blanket is designed to smother and contain EV fires, helping prevent the spread of flames and reducing risk to firefighters and nearby property.

As electric vehicles become more common on Florida roads, the Alford Volunteer Fire Department recognized the need for updated equipment. The department frequently responds to incidents along Highway 231 and Interstate 10, where traffic volume and the number of EVs continue to increase.

The purchase was made possible through dedicated fundraising efforts by the Alford Community Organization. Members say they are always looking for ways to strengthen local safety and support the citizens of the area.

This latest contribution follows the organization’s previous purchase of an Automatic External Defibrillator, further demonstrating its ongoing commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness in the community.

The Alford Community Organization remains active throughout the year with projects and initiatives aimed at improving quality of life in Alford. Anyone with information about additional events, donations, or community efforts by the organization is encouraged to share those details.