EMS 1.7.4

Fire! Fires involving EVs present unique hazards such as thermal runaway, toxic fumes,
and the potential for re-ignition. Responders must exercise extreme caution when
approaching a scene involving fire or signs of overheating.
Fire related safety protocols may include: NEXT • Assessing the Scene for Fire Hazards: • Look for visible flames, smoke, or charred areas on or around the vehicle. • Use a thermal camera, if available, to identify hotspots or areas of residual heat. • Pay attention to unusual sounds, such as hissing, crackling, or popping,
which may indicate thermal runaway in progress. Fire! NEXT • Maintaining a Safe Distance: • Establish a safety perimeter around the vehicle (recommended minimum of 50 feet). • Keep bystanders and non-essential personnel outside the designated perimeter. Fire! • Avoiding Contact with High-Voltage Components: • Do not interact with high-voltage systems, including cables, batteries,
or the service disconnect, while fire hazards are present. • Assume that high-voltage systems remain active and energized
during and after a fire. NEXT Fire! • Notifying Emergency Services: • If fire department personnel are not already on the scene,
contact them immediately to address active flames or smoke. • Provide detailed information about the vehicle's condition, such as
visible signs of fire or the presence of a high-voltage system. NEXT Fire! • Monitoring for Re-Ignition Risks: • Recognize that EV batteries can reignite hours or days after
an initial fire due to internal damage or residual heat. • After extinguishing, monitor the vehicle for signs of smoke
or heat buildup.
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