Floridians who had already endured the wrath of Hurricane Idalia were faced with another unexpected danger – floodwaters causing their cars to spontaneously burst into flames. This alarming scenario unfolded when two electric vehicles, both Teslas, caught fire after being submerged in saltwater churned up by the storm. Palm Harbor Firefighters in Florida issued a warning to owners, cautioning them about the potential combustion of their rechargeable car batteries when exposed to saltwater. The department advised owners to immediately relocate their vehicles from garages if they had come into contact with saltwater within the past 24 hours, urging them to transfer their cars to higher ground if possible.
The warning also extended to electric golf carts, scooters, and bicycles, with the lithium-ion batteries in these vehicles posing a fire hazard when wet. The presence of salt residue after the water evaporates can create pathways between the battery’s cells, increasing the risk of sparks and potential fires. It is worth noting that EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles contain about 1,000 times more cells than e-bikes, making them more susceptible to failure.
Fire crews in Florida experienced a sudden car fire incident while towing a submerged Tesla in Pinellas County. Jason Haynes, the Palm Harbor Fire Rescue training chief, emphasized the delayed combustion that can occur after exposure to saltwater. He stressed the significance of removing potentially damaged vehicles from garages and away from surrounding structures. Tesla itself warns car owners about the risks of submersion and advises against driving flooded vehicles, urging owners to treat them as if they have been in an accident and to contact their insurance company. The company also advises safely towing or moving the vehicles at least 50 feet away from other cars and combustible materials.
Fires resulting from damp lithium-ion batteries may not occur immediately, underscoring the importance of having a water-damaged vehicle inspected by a professional. According to Patrick Olsen, a Carfax spokesperson, the fires can ignite days or even weeks after exposure, debunking the misconception that EVs are safe to drive in deep water due to their lack of an engine that can be flooded.
Andrew Klock, the head of electric vehicle training for firefighters at the National Fire Protection Association, stressed the importance of education regarding how to handle flooding incidents involving electric vehicles. He clarified that EVs are not inherently more dangerous than gas-powered vehicles as long as everyone involved, including motorists and emergency responders, is knowledgeable about dealing with such situations. Klock highlighted the common mistake firefighters make by not directing water to the appropriate location, specifically the chassis where the batteries are situated, instead of continually dousing the top of the vehicle.
In summary, it is crucial for Floridians and all electric vehicle owners to be aware of the potential dangers associated with floodwaters and saltwater exposure. Taking immediate action, such as relocating vehicles to higher ground and seeking professional inspections after water damage, can help mitigate the risks of combustion and fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. By prioritizing education and understanding proper protocols, both owners and emergency responders can effectively manage these situations and minimize the potential harm.
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