LA Fire Department Seminar on New Hazards of EV Fires
The Los Angeles Fire Department welcomed nearly 600 participants from 72 fire departments across the country to the Frank Hotchkin Memorial Training Center for a multi-day seminar focused on lithium-ion battery and electric vehicle (EV) hazards. The training brought together technical experts and fire service professionals to review current research and discuss strategies for managing incidents involving battery-powered technologies.
Presenters shared science-based findings from extensive testing on battery packs of various sizes and in different environments. LAFD instructors outlined how the department plans to apply this data in real-world operations to improve safety for both firefighters and the public.
Speakers emphasized that lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges, including toxic inhalation risks, explosive potential, and the high water demands required to control fires. As battery-powered devices and vehicles become increasingly common, attendees noted the importance of recognizing that battery involvement may be present at many incident types.
A key message of the seminar was the need for firefighters to wear full protective equipment, including respiratory protection, during vehicle and structure fires where battery combustion may occur. Participants discussed scenarios such as highway car fires, below-grade incidents, and exposures in confined areas, underscoring the complexity of identifying and mitigating EV-related hazards in the field.
The seminar also included demonstrations and briefings with industry representatives. Tesla staff provided an overview of battery backup systems, solar-related components, and features of the company’s electric vehicles. Attendees observed how certain materials behave under high heat, such as glass components that may melt during cutting operations.
Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions said the training offered valuable opportunities to learn from departments with significant experience handling lithium-ion incidents. LAFD officials noted that continued education is essential as the fire service adapts to evolving technologies and associated risks.
The department plans to maintain ongoing training efforts as research on battery behavior and EV safety develops.
#LAFD
Presenters shared science-based findings from extensive testing on battery packs of various sizes and in different environments. LAFD instructors outlined how the department plans to apply this data in real-world operations to improve safety for both firefighters and the public.
Speakers emphasized that lithium-ion batteries present unique challenges, including toxic inhalation risks, explosive potential, and the high water demands required to control fires. As battery-powered devices and vehicles become increasingly common, attendees noted the importance of recognizing that battery involvement may be present at many incident types.
A key message of the seminar was the need for firefighters to wear full protective equipment, including respiratory protection, during vehicle and structure fires where battery combustion may occur. Participants discussed scenarios such as highway car fires, below-grade incidents, and exposures in confined areas, underscoring the complexity of identifying and mitigating EV-related hazards in the field.
The seminar also included demonstrations and briefings with industry representatives. Tesla staff provided an overview of battery backup systems, solar-related components, and features of the company’s electric vehicles. Attendees observed how certain materials behave under high heat, such as glass components that may melt during cutting operations.
Firefighters from multiple jurisdictions said the training offered valuable opportunities to learn from departments with significant experience handling lithium-ion incidents. LAFD officials noted that continued education is essential as the fire service adapts to evolving technologies and associated risks.
The department plans to maintain ongoing training efforts as research on battery behavior and EV safety develops.
#LAFD