• Verify that the vehicle is secured and disabled.
• Confirm the extent of damage, the status of the high-voltage system, and any remaining fire risks.
• Conduct a secondary assessment to ensure no hazards have been overlooked.
During Recovery:
• Stay in communication with emergency personnel to receive updates on vehicle conditions or changes in risk.
• Adjust recovery plans as needed based on feedback or observations from the scene.
Document and Update:
• Maintain a log of any changes in the vehicle's condition or scene dynamics, as reported by emergency personnel.
• Record key decisions, such as road closures or equipment changes, to support post-incident analysis.
Designate a Communication Lead:
• For complex scenarios, assign a team member to act as the primary liaison with emergency personnel. This ensures seamless updates and avoids miscommunication, particularly during large-scale incidents.
Effective communication with emergency personnel is not just about responding to immediate incidents - it’s also about building expertise and trust. Tow operators should:
• Participate in regular training, such as toolbox talks, OHS meetings, or EV-specific response workshops.
• Establish relationships with local emergency services to understand their capabilities and protocols.
• Engage in joint drills or scenario planning to enhance coordination during real-world events.
Action Items to consider:
• Create a guide that outlines key steps for tow operators to engage with emergency personnel.
• Provide quick-reference cards for tow operators to identify and address hazards and risks at the scene.