Flood-damaged and fire-damaged EVs pose significant risks due to the potential for secondary thermal runaway events caused by damage or corrosion to low and high-voltage components. This risk is heightened when vehicles are submerged in saltwater, which accelerates corrosion and increases the likelihood of electrical shorts.

EVs are designed with high-voltage systems isolated from the chassis to prevent shock hazards, even when fully submerged. Small bubbles (micro-bubbling) emanating from a submerged vehicle result from electrolysis and do not present a shock hazard to responders. However, corrosion and water ingress can compromise safety once the vehicle is removed from the water.

This lesson highlights what to look out for and how to reduce risks when transporting fire- or flood-damaged EVs,