How should you respond to an EV battery fire or smoke?

• A. Use standard dry chemical extinguisher regardless.
• B. Evacuate the area, call emergency services, attempt cooling with water only if trained and equipment available, and do not attempt to extinguish if not trained.
• C. Ignore and wait.
• D. Cover with sand.

Answer: (B)

When a battery fire or smoke from an electric vehicle starts, the first goal is safety and cooling the heat source. Evacuate people from the area and keep others away. Then call emergency services so trained responders with the right PPE and equipment can step in. If you are trained and have the proper equipment, you can begin cooling the battery with water to absorb heat and slow or stop thermal runaway. Use water rather than trying to extinguish with a standard fire extinguisher, because those methods don’t remove enough heat and can be ineffective or dangerous with a high-energy battery pack. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire if you’re not trained or equipped, since improper handling can spread the fire or create electrical hazards. In short, prioritize evacuation and professional help, and only cool with water if you’re trained and have the right gear.