The incidents of electric car fire are now increasing with the increasing number of Electric cars. In the past, many incidents of electric vehicle fires occurred due to various reasons in Indianapolis. These incidents have enhanced their scope worldwide.Â
Almost every manufacturer has developed fully or hybrid electric vehicles. These vehicles use low-powered gasoline engines along with Electric motors. This motor- coupled with the engine, is powered by rechargeable batteries. 
There are other alternative fuel sources in the form of propane gas, compressed natural gas, and hydrogen-based fuel cells. Vehicles with the source of Solar are also in the market now.
For the capacity building of Firefighters, Most car manufacturers have developed training mechanisms. The training mechanisms align with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for specific training programs. The objectives of these programs are to teach firefighters how to Identify, stabilize, power down and manage these fire emergencies. The training also covers the procedure to extricate the trapped victims and handling procedures of Hazardous materials.
Why Electric Car Got Fire?
The inappropriate installation of batteries, overcharging and discharging, and short-circuiting are the main causes of fire in electric vehicles. The mechanical factors that may lead to heating the engine are also the reason for these fires. The right way to extinguish an electric car fire is the prime factor in reducing further financial loss in these fire incidents.
How to Extinguish an Electric Car Fire?
The first responder from the Fire Department had to deal with the developed or developing fire in an electric car with or without a trapped victim. The use of an appropriate fire extinguisher, preferably Powder Type- DCP, should be the firefighter’s first choice.
Extrication of Trapped victims should be the top priority, and turning off the ignition source is the second. The fires that erupted in electric cars require special attention. That is why every individual should know how to extinguish an electric car fire.
In case of a fully developed fire, use water along with Foam- AFFF to suppress the fire with a double approach. This double approach involves cooling (By water) and smothering (Foam) to extinguish the fire. Under these difficult situations, these decisions by the incident commander required background knowledge and skills. The extrication techniques and skills required for the extrication of victims from an electric car fire are the thrones of the firefighters.
How to prepare to Extinguish an Electric Car Fire?
So the main question is how a head of a fire department prepares the firefighters to extinguish an electric car fire.
First, the responding firefighters must wear full PPE, including SCBA- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus. The Vehicles-on fire contained combustible and non-combustible materials in their bodies. Plastic materials release toxic gases when it is set on fire. The other toxic material may include cyanides, carcinogens, sulfuric acid, and other metals like carbon, nickel, copper, lithium or cobalt. These are why required PPE and SCBA are always essential for firefighter safety.
Next, upon arriving on the scene, firefighters need to identify if it uses alternative fuel or an electrified battery pack. Most manufacturers place an emblem on the trunk and sides. This emblem indicates whether it is powered by a fuel other than gasoline.Â
It is challenging to find the emblem in the dark or smoke. Tesla recommends using a thermal imaging camera during such incidents to scan any electric vehicle to observe if the battery is overheating or burning.Â
Once it is identified, the incident commander has to size up the emergency and establish priorities in the following order;
- Rescue live victim
- Extinguish an electric car fire
- Extrication of victim
- Patient care
- Immobilize the vehicle from any sudden movement
- Start handling the emergency according to the listed priorities.Â
Remember that extreme care may also be needed when an emergency is completed while handling hazardous materials. Necessary preventive measures will reduce the potential hazard.
Trainings to Extinguish an Electric Car Fire
Where do you get the necessary training to handle these different types of vehicles? In the case of a Tesla, you should become familiar with their response guides that vary somewhat by model. The Tesla web page for first responders is a good place to start.
For more generic automotive models, the NFPA offers several online training programs.Â
Electric and hybrid vehicles can generate an electric shock that, in some cases, can unleash 600 or more volts on an unsuspecting firefighter. While this is discussed in several training videos on extrication techniques, it is even more important when using large amounts of water to overcome the fire.
Many auto manufacturers recommend using insulated tools for overhaul and avoiding gas struts or cylinders that can explode under high heat. Their best advice is to approach these devices from the side.
As always, the bottom line is to be trained and prepared before an incident occurs.
In such incidents, take the necessary precautions to protect firefighters by maintaining a strong incident command that provides at minimum a safety chief, a rapid-intervention team, and accountability. Give special consideration to hazmat, including a hot zone, warm zone, entry area, and a safe zone for the media and bystanders.
After the incident, it is essential to decontaminate all PPE and any affected buildings, streets, or residences.
Hi, I am John Smit a Captain in Fire Department City of Newyork with over years of experience in the field of Firefighting and HSE. My passion for fire safety started when I was a young boy and witnessed a neighbor’s house go up in flames along with precious lives. Since then, I had dedicated my life to ensuring the safety of buildings, properties, and individuals in case of a fire and medical emergencies.
