Electric vehicles on fire: new training course dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) fires
The International Fire Training Center (IFTC) has launched a revolutionary new course dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) fires
In response to the exponential increase of electric vehicles (EVs), the International Fire Training Center (IFTC) has developed the first firefighting course dedicated specifically to EVs. This innovative course is the first of its kind in the UK. It provides responders with the practical training and critical safety awareness needed to effectively deal with fires involving EVs.
A state-of-the-art simulator for realistic training
The heart of the course is the innovative “EV fire simulator,” designed to recreate multiple electric vehicle fire scenarios. Rescuers will thus become familiar with possible scenarios and understand the behavior and sounds of an electric vehicle fire. They will then be able to practice effective and repeatable containment and suppression tactics for these fires.
Comprehensive training
The course, developed in collaboration with Martin Lown BEM of the FireWiseUK Learning Academy, covers a wide range of skills. From firefighting techniques using vehicle fire blankets and under-chassis cooling to quarantine of vehicles with suspected failures. “The exponential increase of AFVs on our roads requires rapid upgrading of rescuers’ knowledge and tactics,” said Lown. “Our simulator and the course in general provide incredibly realistic training to better prepare responders to handle this new type of fire.” Ryan Flaherty, Director of Serco Training and Resilience, also agrees with Lown’s statements. He states, “With nearly 14 million EVs already on the road globally, the need to know how to safely manage EV fires is more urgent than ever,” adding, “This new course will provide emergency responders with the training and skills they need to meet this new challenge.”
A course aligned with the latest standards
The new course is aligned with the new IMI EV02a and EV02b national occupational standards for electric vehicle response. Participants will gain the awareness, recognition, and knowledge needed to deal with abnormal thermal events and electric vehicle fires under exceptionally realistic training conditions.
An investment in the future of safety
IFTC’s commitment to cutting-edge training for first responders is a critical step in ensuring everyone’s safety in an increasingly electrified world. With this new course, first responders will be prepared to meet future challenges and protect communities from the hazards of electric vehicle fires.
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