As EV Batteries Catch Fire in Florida, New Jersey Calls for Training: How Does Your Organization Handle DDR Batteries?

The outbreak of fires in electric vehicle (EV) batteries in Florida, ignited by corrosion from prolonged submersion in water, has led to calls for fresh firefighting strategies. Assemblywoman Bethanne McCarthy Patrick, R-Salem, a Pennsville Fire and Rescue member, has argued that traditional firefighting techniques are ineffective against EV fires and could potentially trigger explosions. She has urged the state Division of Fire Safety to incorporate new training methods to combat the growing threat of EV fires.

In response to the increasing incidence of EV fires, proposed legislation (S2881/A4476) introduced by Sen. Edward Durr, R-Gloucester, in June and later in September by McCarthy Patrick along with co-sponsors Assemblyman Herb Conaway, D-Burlington, and Assemblyman Brandon Umba, R-Burlington, is aimed at providing specialized training for fire management in EVs. Durr stressed the need for such legislation as managing EV fires, which burn hotter and longer due to the lithium-ion batteries, requires specific expertise.

In addition to proposing this legislation, Durr recently introduced a companion bill (S3237) to allocate funds for this specialized training from the Universal Service Fund. This fund is typically used to subsidize electric and gas bills for households with low to moderate income.

The increasing popularity of EVs has underscored the need for such specialized training and funding. According to the State Department of Environmental Protection, registered plug-in electric vehicles in New Jersey rose from around 1,500 a decade ago to 80,583 as of June 2022. The state's Clean Energy Plan aims to increase EVs in New Jersey to 330,000 by 2025.

However, McCarthy Patrick has voiced concerns over the unconsidered promotion of EVs by Gov. Phil Murphy and Democrats. She pointed out that the focus on the green agenda and electric vehicles has overlooked the broader implications, including infrastructure, costs, and the safety of first responders. She noted that EV fires consume considerable time and resources and pose potential health risks due to the toxic fumes emitted by burning lithium-ion batteries.

So, How Does Your Organization Handle DDR Batteries?

DDR batteries, also known as lithium-ion batteries, are at the heart of the electric vehicle revolution, powering everything from compact cars to large trucks. Their volatility, however, poses a unique challenge to firefighters and other first responders. Various organizations have adopted different strategies to handle these batteries and the threat they pose.

Some organizations have sought to combat the threat by investing heavily in specialized training and equipment. This often involves a deep understanding of the battery technology and the unique risks it presents, such as the potential for thermal runaway – a chain reaction that can cause the battery to rapidly heat up and ignite.

Other organizations have called for stricter regulations on the design and manufacture of these batteries, arguing that the industry needs to do more to mitigate the risks at the source. They propose that manufacturers incorporate safety features that can prevent a fire from starting in the first place or at least contain it if one breaks out.

Yet another approach is to improve the protocols for dealing with battery fires once they have started. This includes developing more effective firefighting foams and other suppression agents and refining firefighting tactics to reduce the risk of a fire spreading or reigniting.

Whatever the approach, what's clear is that as the use of DDR batteries in electric vehicles continues to grow, so organizations will need to adapt and evolve their firefighting strategies. As the world increasingly embraces electric vehicles and DDR batteries, robust and adaptable firefighting strategies are more crucial than ever. To ensure public safety, it requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders - manufacturers, legislators, and first responders. 

If you are grappling with formulating effective approaches to managing the risks posed by DDR batteries, consider contacting Critical Risk Solution. Our team of experts can provide you with the guidance and support you need. As we navigate this new landscape together, remember that safety is a shared responsibility, not a competitive advantage. Let's collaborate to ensure a safer future for all.