The Rhode Island House approved a bill to create an electric car database for firefighters. The database would list vehicles powered by a high-voltage, lithium-ion storage battery because firefighters have to use a different approach to put out the fire.
Electric vehicle fires can pose unique challenges to firefighters,” said Earl Representative Read (D-Dist. 26, Coventry, West Warwick, Warwick), a retired Warwick police officer. “The intense heat, prolonged burn times and release of toxic gases, such as hydrogen fluoride, require specialized hazard tactics from fire departments. This legislation would create a system of communication between the DMV and fire departments, helping firefighters know where these vehicles are located.”
Electric vehicle fires can be difficult to extinguish due to the potential for delayed thermal events that create special hazards, including electric shock and environmental contamination.
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