Battling the Blazes: Firefighters Confront the Challenges of Electric Vehicle Fires

In a recent incident, the Carmel Fire Department in Indiana responded to an electric vehicle (EV) fire at a local dealership's maintenance department, putting their specialized training into action. This event highlights the growing concerns and unique challenges faced by firefighters when dealing with lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles in emergency situations.

Igniting a Crucial Conversation: Firefighters Confront the Risks of EV Fires

Extinguishing the Unexpected: Carmel Fire Department's Tactics in Action

The Carmel Fire Department's Facebook post detailed the challenges they faced when responding to the EV fire. Upon arrival, they encountered heavy smoke conditions and a triggered water sprinkler system in the maintenance area. While the majority of the fire was quickly extinguished, the lithium-ion battery's propensity for thermal runaway made it nearly impossible to fully extinguish the blaze.To mitigate the situation, the firefighters employed a tactic they had discussed during their training sessions. They lowered the EV, which was on a lift, onto wheel dollies and then used manpower and a forklift to push the vehicle out of the maintenance area. This required a significant number of firefighters and a constant supply of water to keep the fire in check. Once the EV was loaded onto a flatbed, a fire engine followed the vehicle until it reached the salvage yard, ensuring the fire remained under control.

Uncovering the Unique Hazards of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

The article also highlighted the insights shared by Scott Baumfalk, a shop foreman at Automotive Imports and an instructor at the Automotive Certified Training Academy in Colorado. Baumfalk emphasized the distinct hazards associated with hybrid and electric vehicle batteries, which can pose significant risks to first responders and repair professionals.Baumfalk explained that these batteries can emit toxic gases as they heat, cool, and charge, and they are highly flammable. He noted that the venting of these gases to the outside atmosphere, combined with the potential for sparks and heat in the repair industry, increases the risk of fires, flashes, and exposure to harmful fumes.Furthermore, Baumfalk warned that if a lithium-ion cell's voltage falls below 2 volts or near that level, it can switch polarity and trigger a runaway or thermal event. He also highlighted the dangers of severing a cable running to a battery receiving power, which could lead to a larger thermal event.

Navigating the Complexities of EV Battery Systems

The article delved into the unique design and integration of EV battery systems, using examples from different automakers. Baumfalk discussed the Mercedes system, which keeps all the components compact in a smaller, centralized area, and the Audi 48-volt system, which has the 12-volt battery, 48-volt battery, and DC/DC converter in separate areas on the vehicle.Baumfalk explained that the separated Audi system is more common for OEMs, as it was easier to integrate a mild hybrid system on an existing platform rather than redeveloping an entire platform like Mercedes did. He also noted that OEM-specific software and a suitable charger are required to allow the 48-volt battery to take a charge.

Equipping First Responders and the Industry with Essential Resources

The article also highlighted the resources available to first responders, towing and recovery services, recyclers, salvage yards, and the repair industry to properly handle EV and hybrid vehicles. These include the OEM1Stop.com industry site, which provides access to vehicle repair and service information, including Emergency Service Guides written by OEMs.Additionally, the Energy Security Agency (ESA) staffs a 24/7 Guidance Center to assist various stakeholders in properly handling these vehicles, including conducting risk assessments and providing color-coded stickers to warn others of potential risks.The National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Department of Energy also offer numerous EV training resources for first responders and the general public, including training sessions for vehicle dealerships, to ensure they are equipped to handle these emerging challenges.