Incident Response and Battery Hazards Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the first action to take during initial operations at a battery or electric vehicle fire?

  • Confer with the Incident Commander. (correct)
  • Assess the temperature of the area.
  • Evacuate all personnel immediately.
  • Begin extinguishing the fire immediately.

    • What should always be assumed about batteries in emergency situations?

  • They are safe to approach.
  • They should be treated as energized. (correct)
  • They will leak hazardous materials.
  • They are de-energized.

    • Which approach is recommended for the quick evaluation of the incident scene?

  • Evaluate hazards, then rescue if possible.
  • Rescue individuals before assessing the situation.
  • Assess, Control Hazards, Rescue, Evacuate (ACRE). (correct)
  • Control hazards before evaluating the scene.

    • What is required for any immediate rescue operation at a battery fire?

    <p>Minimum PPE for structure fire and SCBA.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done to control hazards during an incident?

    <p>Secure the area and establish control zones.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of a battery emergency, what should the risk assessment consider?

    <p>The hazards and the expected benefit of intervention.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When dealing with electric vehicles during a fire, what should be consulted?

    <p>Manufacturer guide.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an essential part of the immediate rescue process for battery incidents?

    <p>Identifying unprotected personnel and separating them from hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step to take in the event of coin cell battery ingestion?

    <p>Contact National Battery Ingestion Hotline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following indicates potential high hazard operations?

    <p>Visible or audible off-gassing from a battery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action for evacuating victims in a battery emergency?

    <p>Remove them to a safe area and decontaminate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be used to reduce heat when responding to a battery fire?

    <p>Water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition requires the use of PPE and Respiratory Protection?

    <p>All battery emergencies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common hazard associated with Lithium batteries?

    <p>Explosive gas emissions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is indicated by LEL readings that cannot be otherwise explained?

    <p>Potential hazardous conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which agent is preferred for extinguishing Lithium metal fires?

    <p>Copper-based agents</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered when performing a risk assessment during a battery emergency?

    <p>Hazard exposures to victims and personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT an indication of a high hazard operation with batteries?

    <p>Stable battery condition with no damage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be ensured before a vehicle can be released for towing after an incident?

    <p>No fire or signs of thermal runaway should be present for at least 45 minutes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance that the vehicle should be placed from exposures on all sides after an incident?

    <p>50 feet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for towing a damaged electric or hybrid vehicle after an incident?

    <p>County contractors as directed by HCSO</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if patients are exposed to smoke from a battery fire?

    <p>They should be evaluated and transported by emergency personnel.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Incident Commander in relation to Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?

    <p>To ensure appropriate fire suppression tactics and manage control zones.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of protective equipment should personnel wear in a hot zone of an ESS?

    <p>Full structural PPE and SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the immediate action taken regarding air monitoring during an ESS incident?

    <p>Establish air monitoring for flammable and toxic gas build-up.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be prioritized in a hot zone regarding operations?

    <p>Only immediate life safety needs should be addressed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should decontamination procedures occur after a battery fire event?

    <p>After any personnel have engaged in firefighting or hot zone operations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if specific battery hazard information is not available?

    <p>Consult current reference materials and air monitoring tables.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first action to consider when moving batteries outside to a safe area?

    <p>Removing the battery pack with proper tools</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following measures should NEVER be taken with a battery of concern?

    <p>Allowing persons in an elevator with it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done when the involvement of an electric vehicle's battery pack is assessed?

    <p>Consult the manufacturer guide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of thermal runaway during a fire, what is a recommended action?

    <p>Continuously cool battery cells involved in fire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an important step to protect infrastructure during an EV free burn?

    <p>Place wheel chocks to prevent vehicle movement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action is advised when monitoring for flammable vapors?

    <p>Perform air monitoring in confined spaces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered if an EV fire cannot be intervened?

    <p>To protect exposures and control visible fires with water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a suggested method for removing an EV in a garage area?

    <p>Consult with towing or technical rescue personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which battery type is NOT rechargeable?

    <p>Alkaline Battery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be used to ventilate an area during a battery incident?

    <p>Open doors and windows to prevent toxic gas buildup</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a potential indicator of high hazard operations?

    <p>Visible fire involvement or off-gassing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In case of lithium metal fires, which of the following is NOT effective for suppression?

    <p>Sodium Chloride</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done when encountering elevated carbon monoxide (CO) readings?

    <p>Evacuate the area and ensure ventilation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of hazard should be controlled when securing the area during a battery emergency?

    <p>Immediate hazards to prevent escalation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the first steps in risk assessment during battery emergencies?

    <p>Consider the hazards victims and personnel are exposed to</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following should be monitored for potentially dangerous levels during a battery emergency?

    <p>LEL and CO levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if there is visible or audible off-gassing from a battery?

    <p>Assess for potential fire or toxic hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended method for dealing with a lithium-ion battery fire?

    <p>Allow it to burn out safely</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if battery cells are identified as damaged during an incident?

    <p>Put them into a battery containment device/overpack when possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a necessary precaution when moving a battery outside during an emergency?

    <p>Cover the battery with a fire blanket or use a specialty fire bag if possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should not be done with a battery of concern during an emergency situation?

    <p>Place individuals in an elevator with the battery</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step is essential when dealing with an Electric Vehicle (EV) fire?

    <p>Utilize EV Nozzle for suppression and cooling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be considered if a fire involving an EV is deemed non-intervention?

    <p>Protect infrastructure like buildings and roads along with adjacent property</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a recommended action for continuous monitoring in enclosed areas during a battery incident?

    <p>Perform air monitoring for flammable vapors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which approach should be taken if an EV is inside a garage and needs to be removed?

    <p>Work with towing or technical rescue personnel for a safe removal plan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done to secure the incident area in the event of a battery fire?

    <p>Establish control zones based on identified hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken after a thermal runaway during a fire incident?

    <p>Cool battery cells involved in the fire continuously</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the ACRE approach entail when responding to a battery or electric vehicle fire?

    <p>Assess, Control Hazards, Rescue, Evacuate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be treated always as energized during an incident involving batteries?

    <p>All types of batteries</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a key consideration when performing a risk assessment for battery emergencies?

    <p>The likelihood of harm and expected intervention benefits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During immediate rescue operations, what is the minimum personal protective equipment required?

    <p>Structure fire PPE and SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When responding to an electric vehicle fire, what is one of the first steps to consider?

    <p>Consult the manufacturer guide for the vehicle.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of battery incidents should be evaluated when using the ACRE approach?

    <p>Presence of civilians and their proximity to hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the priority when determining next steps after assessing elevated temperatures during a battery fire?

    <p>Identify the type of battery involved.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance a damaged vehicle should be placed from exposures after an incident?

    <p>50 feet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for towing a vehicle that has sustained damage to its battery cells?

    <p>County contractors designated by the HCSO</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done immediately regarding air quality monitoring during an ESS incident?

    <p>Establish air monitoring for flammable and toxic gases</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which procedure should NOT be followed when dealing with energy storage systems in an ESS hot zone?

    <p>Use ordinary PPE without SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical step to take if smoke inhalation occurs due to a battery fire?

    <p>Evaluate and transport to the appropriate medical facility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should decontamination procedures be initiated after a battery fire event?

    <p>As soon as the fire is extinguished</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do if specific battery hazard information is unavailable?

    <p>Consult current reference material and air monitoring tables</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be prioritized in a hot zone regarding operations during an ESS incident?

    <p>Immediate life safety needs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required for a storage lot to accept a vehicle under law enforcement direction?

    <p>A law enforcement slip</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should not be done with vehicles involved in a fatality incident?

    <p>Move the vehicle to clear the rubble</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done to establish control zones during a battery fire incident?

    <p>Secure the area and deny entry based on hazards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which procedure should be prioritized when responding to battery emergencies?

    <p>Assessing the nature and extent of the emergency</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential risk factor to consider during the risk assessment for battery emergencies?

    <p>Likelihood of harm and expected benefit of intervention</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the initial response to an electric vehicle involved in a fire, what is advisable concerning intervention?

    <p>Consider non-intervention if fire involvement is severe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must personnel wear for immediate rescue operations during a battery fire incident?

    <p>Structure fire PPE and SCBA</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be checked for signs during the assessment phase of a battery emergency?

    <p>Signs of elevated temperatures and hazardous materials</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following should never be assumed about batteries during emergencies?

    <p>They may be uncharged and safe to handle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional support may be required in battery fire incidents beyond initial rescue efforts?

    <p>Rehab teams and Hazardous Materials teams</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consideration when attempting to extinguish a lithium metal fire?

    <p>Use a Class D Agent if available, preferably copper.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In assessing high hazard operations with batteries, which factor is critical to monitor?

    <p>Signs of physical damage to batteries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an appropriate action if victims have been exposed to battery fire smoke?

    <p>Evacuate them to a safe refuge and decontaminate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step should be taken to ensure the safety of individuals during a battery incident?

    <p>Isolate and deny entry to the affected area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant risk associated with alkaline batteries from before 1990?

    <p>Potential mercury hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions necessitates the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

    <p>During close interactions with batteries that may be leaking.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What principle should guide the control of gases during a battery incident?

    <p>Prevent build-up of both toxic and explosive gases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should elevated oxygen (O2) readings be interpreted during a battery hazard assessment?

    <p>They may point to a potential hazard requiring immediate action.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step is crucial for risk mitigation in a battery emergency response?

    <p>Develop and communicate Incident Objectives clearly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major concern when batteries are involved in a fire and are experiencing thermal abuse?

    <p>They might cause further explosions or thermal runaway.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance required to place a vehicle after an incident involving a battery to ensure safety from potential re-ignition?

    <p>50 feet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the case of a battery incident, who is responsible for towing a damaged electric or hybrid vehicle?

    <p>County contractors directed by HCSO</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions is NOT recommended when dealing with Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS) during an incident?

    <p>Allow unrestricted entry into the hot zone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS) technical specialists be contacted during an emergency?

    <p>Immediately upon arrival at the incident scene</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of consulting the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) during exposure medical care decisions?

    <p>To obtain information on potential health risks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is essential to do when establishing control zones for Exterior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)?

    <p>Isolate and deny entry based on explosion risk</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What immediate action should be taken if patients are exposed to smoke from a battery fire?

    <p>Evaluate by appropriate emergency medical personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of battery contamination, which type of decontamination should at least be conducted on personnel?

    <p>Standard structural fire decontamination procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What conditions should be monitored during air monitoring in incidents involving batteries?

    <p>Low Energy Levels (LEL) and Carbon Monoxide (CO)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first action to take if specific battery hazard information is not available during an incident?

    <p>Consult current reference material and air monitoring tables</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action if battery cells have been ejected from a battery pack during an emergency?

    <p>Place them in a battery containment device or overpack if possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When facing an EV fire, what is a crucial action to take regarding the vehicle's movement?

    <p>Attach wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from moving</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done to protect structures and adjacent property during an EV free burn?

    <p>Implement measures to secure the surrounding area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one method for suppressing flames during a battery fire incident?

    <p>Utilizing an EV nozzle for suppression and cooling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of thermal runaway, what is a critical step to manage the situation?

    <p>Cool the involved battery cells continuously</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key consideration when assessing a fire involving an EV?

    <p>The type of battery pack that powers the vehicle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with damaged battery cells encountered during an incident?

    <p>Place them into a battery containment device/overpack</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an appropriate action if safe overpacking of batteries cannot be done inside a structure?

    <p>Establish a secure path of travel for their removal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Incident Response

    • Responders should confer with the Incident Commander to determine evacuation and rescue needs.
    • Minimum PPE for rescue is structure fire PPE and SCBA with water decontamination.
    • Consider adding District Chief, Safety Officer, Haz Mat Team, additional units, Rehab, Rescue, and PIO.

    Battery Hazards

    • Always treat batteries as energized and avoid contact with high voltage components.
    • ACRE (Assess, Control Hazards, Rescue, Evacuate) approach should be used for rapid evaluation of the incident scene.
    • Control hazards by securing the area, isolating and denying entry, and establishing control zones based on hazards.
    • Rescue operations should use appropriate methods to separate unprotected personnel from hazards.
    • Risk assessment for battery emergencies should consider the hazards, controllability, likelihood of harm, and expected benefit of intervention.

    Battery Types

    • Primary batteries are disposable (alkaline).
    • Secondary batteries are rechargeable.
    • Lithium metal fires may be suppressed with water initially, but Class D agent (copper preferred) is recommended. Sodium chloride is not effective.
    • Lead acid batteries require LEL and CO monitoring and can be suppressed with dry chemical.
    • Lithium-ion batteries may be allowed to burn out in a safe area; extinguish visible fire with water or other appropriate extinguishing agents.

    Electric Vehicle (EV) Fires

    • Evaluate battery pack involvement.
    • Consult manufacturer guides for specific vehicles.
    • Consider non-intervention for fire involvement after risk assessment.
    • Protect infrastructure and adjacent property if a vehicle is allowed to free burn.
    • Use wheel chocks to prevent movement.
    • If non-intervention is not feasible, protect exposures, control visible fire with water, consider using an EV nozzle, deploy EV fire blanket, continuously cool battery cells, and prepare for extended water supply operations.

    Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Work with Incident Commander to ensure appropriate fire suppression tactics are in place, the size and location of ESS are known, control zones are established, and explosion or fire hazards are accounted for.
    • Establish air monitoring for flammable and toxic gas build-up.
    • Restrict operations in an ESS hot zone to immediate life safety needs with full structural PPE and SCBA.
    • Immediately contact the responsible party (RP) and ensure ESS technical specialists are en route.

    Exterior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Isolate, deny entry, and establish control zones for the ESS.
    • Restrict operations in an ESS hot zone to immediate life safety needs with full structural PPE and SCBA.
    • Immediately contact the RP and ensure ESS technical specialists are en route.
    • Protect exposures and control visible fire with water if appropriate.
    • Work with the Incident Commander and RP on a mitigation plan.
    • Consider contacting technical specialist assistance.

    Decontamination

    • Consult SDS or a technical expert for each battery hazard.
    • Decontaminate as necessary.
    • Standard structural fire decontamination procedures should be followed for personnel engaging in firefighting or entry operations.
    • Consider technical decontamination for incidents involving corrosive contamination.

    Mission Critical Battery and Electric Vehicle Fires

    • Initial operations should prioritize communication with the Incident Commander and identifying potential rescue or evacuation needs.
    • Battery-related incidents require treating batteries as energized and avoiding contact with high-voltage parts.
    • The ACRE approach (Assess, Control Hazards, Rescue, Evacuate) is crucial for initial scene evaluation.
    • Hazard control measures include securing the area, restricting access, and establishing zones based on identified hazards.
    • Rescue operations should prioritize the safety of personnel by using appropriate methods and equipment to separate them from hazards.
    • Risk assessment for battery emergencies requires analysis of hazards, control capabilities, likelihood of harm, and expected intervention benefits.
    • Electric Vehicle (EV) incidents require consulting manufacturer guides, considering non-intervention for fire involvement, and protecting infrastructure and nearby properties.

    Essential Operational Guidelines

    • Personnel responding to battery, electric vehicle, or electrical storage system (ESS) incidents should adhere to these procedures.

    Immediate Response and Hazard Control

    • Initial Operations:
      • Communicate with the Incident Commander.
      • Immediate Rescue: Determine if any individuals need rescue or evacuation.
        • Minimal personal protective equipment (PPE) for rescue includes structure fire PPE and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
        • Water decontamination is required for any immediate rescue.
      • Consider adding additional units: District Chief, Safety Officer, Haz Mat Team, Rehab, Rescue, and Public Information Officer (PIO).
    • Treat batteries as energized and avoid contact with high-voltage components.
    • Assess:
      • Conduct a quick evaluation of the scene and identify potential hazards.
    • Coin Cell Ingestion:
      • Contact the National Battery Ingestion Hotline (1-800-498-8666).
      • Gather battery type and size if possible.
      • Request Emergency Medical Services (EMS) as transport is necessary.
    • Note Hazards:
      • Elevated temperatures.
      • LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) readings.
      • Carbon Monoxide (CO) readings.
      • Oxygen (O2) readings below 20.8%.
      • Fumes and odors.
      • Leaking fluids.
      • Battery types: Primary (alkaline - not rechargeable) and Secondary (rechargeable).
      • Technical specialists involved.
    • High Hazard Indicators:
      • Visible fire involvement of a battery, battery pack, or ESS.
      • Audible or visible off-gassing from a battery, battery pack, or ESS.
      • Unexplained LEL readings.
      • Unexplained CO readings.
      • Unexplained elevated temperatures of batteries or ESS.
      • Fire exposure to a battery or in the vicinity of a fire.
      • Physical damage to a battery, battery pack, or ESS.
      • Liquid leaks, pooling, etc.
    • Control Hazards:
      • Secure the area by controlling immediate hazards.
      • Isolate and restrict entry.
      • Establish isolation and control zones based on hazards.
      • Ensure use of PPE and respiratory protection, and ventilate to reduce gas build-up.
      • Reduce heat stress to additional batteries/cells.
    • Rescue:
      • Water is most effective to reduce heat.
      • Separate unprotected personnel from potential hazards using appropriate methods and equipment.
    • Evacuate:
      • Remove victims to a safe area.
      • Provide appropriate decontamination.

    Risk Assessment and Mitigation

    • A proper risk assessment for battery emergencies should consider:
      • Hazards that victims and personnel are exposed to.
      • Capabilities of the Hazardous Materials Team and fire personnel in controlling hazards.
      • Likelihood of hazards causing harm.
      • Expected benefits of intervention.
    • Risk Mitigation:
      • Refer to specific battery considerations and relevant technical guides.
      • Consult technical specialists if available.
      • Develop and communicate incident objectives.
      • Obtain Incident Commander approval for implementing objectives.
      • Coordinate with external agencies to ensure assistance.
      • Establish a plan for disposal of damaged batteries together with the reporting party.

    Battery Type Considerations

    • Primary Battery Considerations:
      • Disposable Alkaline:
        • Standard extinguishment techniques (water, dry chemical, CO2) can be used.
        • Consider the potential alkaline (base) hazard from large quantities of batteries.
        • Be aware of the small Mercury (Hg) hazard in pre-1990 batteries.
      • Disposable Lithium Metal:
        • Water can suppress small Lithium fires.
        • Consider Class D Agent (Copper preferred, Graphite effective).
        • SODIUM CHLORIDE is NOT EFFECTIVE.
        • Identify battery electrolyte for toxicity and environmental hazard mitigation.
    • Secondary Battery Considerations:
      • Lead Acid Battery:
        • Monitor for LEL and CO.
        • Consider using dry chemical for fire suppression.
        • Consult Safety Data Sheets (SDS) when possible.
        • Consider neutralizing spills.
      • Lithium-Ion Batteries:
        • Allow batteries involved in fire to burn out in a safe area if possible.
        • Extinguish visible fire with water or an appropriate extinguishing agent.
        • Maintain a charged handline or extinguishing mechanism when near a battery that has experienced thermal, physical, or electrical abuse.
        • Ventilate the area.
        • Cool adjacent battery cells with water.
        • Utilize a thermal imager to observe battery cells.
        • Consider unplugging batteries from chargers.
        • Removing batteries from an enclosed area should be conducted with a full risk assessment.
        • Remove battery pack considerations:
          • Consider overpacking batteries involved before moving them outside to a safe area.
          • Consider removing the battery pack using appropriate tools/equipment.
          • Consider using a fire blanket or fire bag over batteries during removal.
          • If unable to overpack safely in a structure or confined area:
            • Establish a path of travel for removal.
            • Ensure suppression capability along the path of travel.
            • Never allow individuals on elevators with a battery of concern.
            • Cover the battery with a fire blanket or fire bag if possible during movement outside.
            • Place damaged battery cells into a containment device/overpack when possible.
            • Check the area for ejected battery cells from a battery pack. Treat these as damaged cells.

    Electric Vehicle (EV) Incident Procedures

    • Evaluate the involvement of the battery pack.
    • Consult the manufacturer's guide for the vehicle type.
    • Consider non-intervention after assessing risks for fire involvement.
    • Protect infrastructure and adjacent property if a vehicle is allowed to burn out.
    • Place wheel chocks to prevent vehicle movement.
    • If non-intervention is not feasible:
      • Protect exposures and control visible EV fires with water.
      • Consider using an "EV Nozzle" for suppression and cooling.
      • Deploy an EV fire blanket to suppress flames and reduce smoke production.
      • Continuously cool battery cells involved in fire and prepare for extended water supply operations.
      • Consider chocking wheels.
      • Use a thermal imager to check for battery cell propagation.
      • Consider lifting/tilting the vehicle, if safe, for direct access to battery modules for cooling.
      • Consider water supply requirements.
    • Monitor for flammable vapors in enclosed or partially enclosed areas.
    • Work with towing or technical rescue personnel to move the EV to a safe outside area if it's in a garage or enclosed space.
    • Plan to move the vehicle to a safe area with no exposures whenever possible.
    • Work with law enforcement and towing personnel to safely remove the vehicle from the scene.
    • Ensure no fire or signs of thermal runaway/heating for at least 45 minutes before releasing the vehicle for towing, investigation, etc.
    • Advise that the vehicle should be placed at least 50 feet from exposures on all sides in case of re-ignition.
    • If the vehicle is burned or has damage to battery cells, County towing contractors (Milstead, Humble Towing, or Apple Towing) will tow the vehicle at the direction of the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
    • The storage lot cannot refuse storage of the vehicle on a "law enforcement slip."
    • The Harris County Sheriff's Office requests that vehicles NOT BE MOVED if they are involved in a fatality incident.

    Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Communicate with the Incident Commander to ensure:
      • Appropriate fire suppression tactics for the building.
      • Size, number, and locations of interior ESSs.
      • Deny entry and establish control zones that account for the ESS.
      • Account for explosion or additional fire hazards.
    • Monitor for flammable and toxic gas build-up within the area of involvement and structure.
      • Pay close attention to LEL and CO readings.
    • Ventilate the area of involvement.
    • Restrict operations in an ESS hot zone to immediate life safety needs with full structural PPE and SCBA, along with handline protection.
    • Immediately contact the responsible party (RP) or emergency numbers listed for the ESS facility and ensure that ESS technical specialists are en route.
    • Consider setting up exposure protection.
    • Work with the Incident Commander, RP, and Technical Specialists for a mitigation plan.

    Exterior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Isolate, deny entry, and establish control zones that account for the size of the ESS and any explosion or fire hazards.
    • Restrict operations in an ESS hot zone to immediate life safety needs with full structural PPE and SCBA, along with handline protection.
    • Immediately contact the RP or emergency numbers listed for the ESS facility and ensure that ESS technical specialists are en route.
    • Protect exposures and control any visible fire with water if appropriate.
    • Work with the Incident Commander, RP, and Technical Specialists on a mitigation plan.
    • Consider contacting technical specialist assistance.

    Exposure Medical Care and Decontamination

    • Patients exposed to smoke from a battery fire should be evaluated by emergency medical personnel and transported to an appropriate facility.
    • Consult SDS for health information and provide it to medical and hospital personnel.
    • In the absence of specific battery information, consult reference materials and air monitoring tables to identify inhalation hazards.
    • Consult the SDS or a technical expert for each battery hazard when available.
    • Decontaminate as necessary.
    • Implement standard structural fire decontamination procedures for all personnel involved in firefighting or hot zone operations.
    • Consider technical decontamination for incidents involving corrosive contamination.

    Incident Response

    • Initial response should include consultation with the Incident Commander, evaluating the need for rescue, and determining if evacuation is necessary.
    • Rescue operations require at least structure fire PPE and SCBA, with water decontamination following any immediate rescue.
    • Additional units should be considered based on the complexity and duration of the incident, including: district chief, safety officer, HAZMAT team, rehab, rescue, and PIO.

    Battery Operations

    • Treat all batteries as energized and avoid contact with high-voltage components.
    • Assess the incident scene quickly, noting any signs of elevated temperatures, hazardous materials, and the specific type of batteries involved.
    • For cell ingestion, contact the National Battery Ingestion Hotline and seek EMS transport.
    • Identify and control hazards by securing the area, isolating and denying entry, establishing control zones based on hazards, and using appropriate PPE and respiratory protection.
    • Ventilation is crucial to minimize the build-up of explosive and toxic gases, and reduce heat stress on additional batteries.
    • Risk Assessment: Consider the hazard(s) to personnel, the ability to control the hazard(s), the likelihood of harm, and the expected benefit of intervention.

    Battery Types

    • Primary Batteries:
      • Alkaline batteries: Consider standard extinguishing techniques (water, dry chemical, CO2).
      • Recognize potential alkaline (base) hazards from large quantities of batteries.
      • Be aware of mercury (Hg) hazard in pre-1990 batteries.
    • Disposable Lithium Metal:
      • Water can suppress small fires, but Class D agent (copper preferred, graphite effective) is recommended.
      • Sodium chloride is not effective.
      • Identify battery electrolyte for toxicity and environmental hazard mitigation needs.
    • Secondary Batteries:
      • Lead Acid:
        • Monitor for LEL and CO.
        • Consider dry chemical for fire suppression.
        • Consult SDS.
        • Neutralization is a consideration for spills.
      • Lithium-Ion:
        • Consider allowing fires in safe areas to burn out.
        • Extinguish visible fires with water or other appropriate agents.
        • Maintain suppression capability when near thermally, physically, or electrically compromised batteries.
        • Ventilate area, cool adjacent cells with water, use a thermal imager to observe cells, and consider unplugging chargers.
        • When removing batteries to a safe area, conduct a full risk assessment, prioritize overpacking, and utilize appropriate cutting tools/equipment.
        • Establish a safe path of travel with full suppression capability, and never use an elevator.
        • Cover batteries with fire blankets or specialty fire bags during movement, and place ejected cells in containment devices.

    Electric Vehicle (EV) Operations

    • Evaluate the involvement of the battery pack in any EV incident.
    • Consult the manufacturer guide when available.
    • Consider non-intervention after appropriate risk assessment for fire involvement.
    • If intervention is needed, protect exposures, control visible fires with water, consider using an EV nozzle for suppression and cooling, and deploy an EV fire blanket to minimize flames and smoke.
    • Cool battery cells continuously, especially if involving thermal runaway, and prepare for extended water supply operations.
    • Use a thermal imager to monitor battery cells, and consider lifting or tilting the vehicle for direct access to modules for cooling.
    • Perform air monitoring for flammable vapors in enclosed/partially enclosed areas.
    • Establish a plan with towing and/or technical rescue personnel for removing EVs to a safe area, ensuring at least 45 minutes of fire-free stabilization before releasing the vehicle for towing/investigation.
    • Advise that the towed vehicle should be placed 50' away from exposures.
    • Harris County contracts with Milstead, Humble Towing, or Apple Towing (at the direction of HCSO) for towing damaged electric or hybrid vehicles.
    • Storage lots cannot refuse storage on a "law enforcement slip".
    • Do not move vehicles involved in fatality incidents.

    Interior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Consult with the Incident Commander to determine:
      • Appropriate fire suppression tactics for the building involved.
      • Size, number, and location of interior ESSs.
      • Control zones that account for the ESS.
      • Precautions for explosions or additional fire hazards.
    • Establish air monitoring for flammable and toxic gas build-up, paying special attention to LEL and CO readings.
    • Ventilate the area of involvement.
    • Restrict operations in the hot zone to immediate life safety needs, requiring full structural PPE, SCBA, and handline protection.
    • Contact the responsible party (RP) immediately and ensure ESS technical specialists are en route.
    • Consider setting up exposure protection and work with the Incident Commander, RP, and Technical Specialists for a mitigation plan.

    Exterior Energy Storage Systems (ESS)

    • Isolate, deny entry, and establish control zones based on size and potential hazards.
    • Restrict operations in the hot zone to immediate life safety needs, utilizing full structural PPE, SCBA, and handline protection.
    • Immediately contact the RP and ensure technical specialists are en route.
    • Protect exposures and control visible fires with water as necessary.
    • Develop a mitigation plan with the Incident Commander, RP, and Technical Specialists.
    • Consider technical specialist assistance.

    Exposure Medical Care

    • Evaluate patients exposed to battery fire smoke with appropriate emergency medical personnel.
    • Consult the SDS for health information and share with medical and hospital personnel.
    • In the absence of battery-specific information, use current reference material and air monitoring tables to identify inhalation hazards.

    Decontamination

    • Consult the SDS or a technical expert for guidance when available.
    • Decontaminate as necessary.
    • Use standard structural fire decontamination procedures for personnel involved in firefighting or entry operations into a hot zone.
    • Consider technical decontamination for incidents involving corrosive contamination.

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    SFD.081 - Battery and Electric Vehicle Fires PDF

    Description

    Test your knowledge on effective incident response strategies and battery hazard management. This quiz covers essential protocols for responders and key concepts related to battery safety, including types and risk assessment. Ensure you are prepared to handle emergencies involving batteries and other hazards.

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