Emergency responders follow specific procedures when dealing with electric vehicle (EV) accidents to ensure safety and prevent hazards related to high-voltage systems.
Key Actions for Responders:
- Identify the EV: Check for EV badges, charge ports, or labels that indicate the vehicle is electric or hybrid.
- Stabilize the scene: Secure the vehicle, check for fire or smoke, and assess passenger injuries before approaching.
- Disable the high-voltage system: Locate and use the emergency disconnect or cut loop (often marked in orange). If uncertain, wait for trained personnel or consult EV emergency response guides.
- Avoid cutting orange cables: These cables carry high voltage. Never cut or touch them unless properly trained and protected.
- Use non-conductive tools: When working near the battery or electrical components, use insulated gloves and tools to prevent electric shock.
- Cool the battery in case of fire: Use large volumes of water to suppress battery fires and prevent thermal runaway. Avoid using foam or dry chemicals, which are ineffective for lithium-ion fires.
Most EV manufacturers provide Emergency Response Guides (ERGs) with detailed instructions for each model. Accessing these guides can be critical for safe handling during rescue operations.