While the number of reported incidents remains relatively low, the Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) advises against charging batteries unattended overnight, or them remaining plugged in when finished. Cases are rising in the rapid onset of fires within seconds.
The union representing DFB members is advocating for a comprehensive plan to train and equip firefighters specifically for dealing with battery-related issues. Geoff McEvoy, an official from SIPTU, expresses the need for a more thorough assessment of the associated risks and efforts to mitigate them. He notes the constant challenge of keeping up with evolving technology concerning batteries in electric vehicles, emphasizing the lack of a current training plan or updated equipment to address these emerging risks.
While fires in electric cars occur less frequently than in traditional combustion engines, they present unique challenges due to the rapid and intense burning of the onboard batteries. Lithium-Ion batteries pose challenges such as resistance to water and burning with particular ferocity. In some cases as much as over 40000 litres of water have been required to extinguish fires.
Europe is beginning to adopt devices that penetrate battery casings and deliver water directly into the battery, but the problem of smaller devices’ batteries, commonly charged in homes and multi-occupancy developments, are posing more concerning due to their popularity and increasing requirement. New batteries, sold with devices meeting EU standards, are considered safe when used correctly, but risks arise from overcharging, short-circuiting, water damage, or any form of damage, according to the Department of Enterprise in Ireland.
Measuring how many incidents have been caused by faulty batteries in Ireland difficult to quantify due to many of the fires in 2022 had no known cause. International figures from fire brigades with larger emergency coverage areas reveal a growing concern, with lithium-ion batteries being suspected as causing approximately 550 fires in recent years.
Figures obtained by UK insurance firms show a 150% increase in household fires caused by batteries in a year. On November 14th, the New York City Fire Department attributed a Brooklyn fire that resulted in three fatalities to a lithium-ion battery, reporting 238 fires and 17 fatalities caused by such batteries at that point.
Leading safety commentators are calling for more research on extent of danger surrounding batteries but specific statistics are difficult to obtain due to the lack of a computerized record system. Senior firefighter are stressing the importance and challenges of extinguishing fires in electric vehicles, and disposal of the contaminated water and suppression liquids used in the extinguishing.
A more concise approach needs to be adopted across all industries with training in the use, management and disposal of battery devices so to ensure the minimal emergencies. Contact us for advice on training and equipment.
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