Salt water and electric vehicles
Brooklyn New York Fire:
The lithium-ion battery problems continue to plague an unsuspecting public. Just recently, a lithium-ion battery- based fire took place in Brooklyn, New York.Two other family members and the grandfather were injured along with a New York City Fireman.
The residents of the apartment building where the fire occurred told the fire fighters, “we heard a noise when the battery failed.” Unfortunately, this loss of life is the 4th death from a lithium-ion battery fire this year in New York City.
Fire Danger from Salt Water:
A stern warning has been issued by the Fire Marshall for the State of Florida, Jimmy Patronis, concerning electrical vehicles and other equipment that may have lithium-ion batteries within them.
The Fire Marshal stated that, “11 electric vehicles and 48 lithium-ion batteries caught fire in Hurricane Helen.” It is apparent that flood waters have triggered the battery fires.
It is important for lithium-ion battery owners to understand the fire damage from the saltwater. It was reported that hurricane Ian caused hundreds of electric vehicle fires across Florida including 36 that ignited after being exposed to water damage.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stated that due to hurricane Ian in 2022, between 3,000 and 5,000 Electric Vehicles were damaged in Florida with 600 vehicles deemed a total loss, with 36 catching on fire.
CBS News has some further tips on how to avoid fires after an EV has been exposed to salt water:
· “Leave all windows and/or doors open to allow any potentially flammable gases to vent from the passenger compartment.
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· If the vehicle is stored indoors and can be moved, move it outside into an open-air location. If it cannot be moved, try to keep the storage area open and vented.
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· Unplug and do not attempt to charge the vehicle.
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· Disable the vehicle by chocking the wheels, placing the gearshift in park and removing the ignition key and/or disconnecting the 12V battery.
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· Avoid contact with the high voltage battery especially if a vehicle is showing signs of a damaged or overheating HV battery.
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· Follow manufacturers recommendations for your specific vehicle.”
Norman Lambe
nwlambe@gmail.com