When it comes to tackling an electric vehicle (EV) fire, experts have differing opinions on the best approach. Typically, the standard method involves using large amounts of water to cool the battery pack, along with a fire blanket to suppress the flames and breathing equipment for firefighters to protect them from toxic vapors. In some cases, allowing the fire to burn itself out may be the safest option.
Efforts to suffocate the fire with inert gases are often ineffective, as chemical fires like those involving lithium ion batteries do not require oxygen to continue burning. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly check the surrounding area for discarded battery cells that may have been ejected from the battery pack during the fire and could pose a risk of reigniting.
After the fire has been contained, the burnt-out EV must be carefully removed and stored in a secure location away from other vehicles and buildings. It is worth noting that a significant percentage of scrapyard fires are caused by spent lithium ion batteries.
Some more extreme measures that may be taken include immersing the car in water, although precautions must be taken to avoid using seawater, which could release harmful chlorine gas.
Are electric cars unsafe due to fire risks?
Despite the potential dangers posed by EV fires, Paul Christensen, a professor of pure and applied electrochemistry at Newcastle University and a senior advisor to the National Fire Chiefs Council, emphasizes that electric cars are still a safe choice overall. He highlights the numerous benefits that EV technology offers and encourages consumers not to be overly concerned about the relatively low incidence of fires involving electric vehicles.
Christensen explains, “Lithium ion batteries store a significant amount of energy in a compact space, and while our understanding of the risks associated with them has lagged behind their widespread adoption since 2008, efforts are being made to catch up and improve safety measures.”
As part of his efforts to raise awareness about EV fire risks among first responders, Christensen has conducted presentations for numerous fire services in the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
