In recent years, there has been rapid progress in the development of electric vehicles. To ensure that firefighters have a better understanding of electric vehicle structures, power distribution methods, and emergency response measures required for carrying out rescue operations safely, the Fire Bureau of the Taichung City Government invited Sunlit Motors, an electric vehicle dealer, to share insights at the Sixth Corps of the Fire Bureau on April 30. The session was led by electric vehicle technicians who explained various aspects including battery module structures, vehicle body designs, and emergency power cutoff mechanisms. Additionally, colleagues from the corps with firsthand experience in rescuing electric vehicles also shared relevant information.
The Fire Bureau noted that in this training session, Sunlit Motors showcased their latest electric vehicle models and provided details about battery modules, battery characteristics, risks of electric shock, rapid combustion, toxic gases, and procedures for electric vehicle rescue. They specifically addressed the potential electric shock hazards when damaging the vehicle body, with technicians using actual vehicles for demonstration and explanation. Following this, firefighters participated in rescue drills, simulating scenarios of electric vehicle fires. Prior to the arrival of fire blankets, they demonstrated lifting the vehicle using lifting equipment and used water hoses to cool the battery modules. Once the fire blankets were available, they showed how to cover the burning electric vehicle and secure water hoses underneath for cooling, thus preventing the accumulation of dense smoke in the space and reducing risks to the rescue personnel.
Director Sun Fu-yu of the Fire Bureau noted that in recent years, there has been a surge in electric vehicle development by various car manufacturers, with charging stations also being widely installed in buildings. He emphasized that the risks associated with electric vehicle fires and the rescue procedures differ significantly from those of traditional gasoline vehicles. Therefore, it's vital for every firefighter to grasp the electric vehicle's structure, electric shock risks, battery modules, and related aspects, which require special attention when dealing with accidents or fires involving electric vehicles. By proactively understanding and assessing risks beforehand, firefighters can avoid electric shock injuries during electric vehicle accident rescues, thus ensuring the safety of citizens' lives and properties.