### Firefighters Trained to Handle Electric Vehicle Fires in Tijuana
Firefighters in Tijuana are undergoing specialized training in the United States to effectively respond to fires involving hybrid and electric vehicles, according to Rafael Carrillo Venegas, the head of Tijuana’s Municipal Fire Department.
“It’s not just fires; we’re also preparing for scenarios involving collisions, rollovers, and situations where we need to cut off the energy supply,” Carrillo Venegas explained. “High voltage poses significant risks, including electrocution and even death.”
**Challenges in Extinguishing Electric Vehicle Fires**
Firefighter Carrillo Venegas highlighted the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle (EV) fires. These incidents often require a vast amount of water, and it’s sometimes necessary to “submerge” the vehicle in water to extinguish the flames.
“At times, we have to construct makeshift pools or containers out of earth to drown the fire. If we simply use dirt, the fire will continue until the lithium and battery materials are completely consumed. It’s quite a challenge,” he detailed.
So far this year, Tijuana firefighters have responded to two EV fire reports. In each case, the fire did not reach the vehicle’s electrical systems. The most recent incident occurred on August 5, when an electric vehicle caught fire due to a faulty charging connection.
“The fire was contained to the body of the vehicle, which helped us avoid major complications. Another incident involved a rollover, which was a minor event and didn’t escalate,” Carrillo Venegas noted.
**Time to Extinguish Fires**
Carrillo Venegas also explained that while gasoline or diesel vehicle fires can be extinguished in about 30 minutes, electric vehicle fires can take up to two or three days to fully put out.
“This is because the water used can simply run off. We need to find a way to contain the water so that the vehicle’s cells or batteries are fully submerged. The base of an electric vehicle is packed with batteries,” he said.
### Additional News: Tesla Incidents and Fire Response
In related news, a Tesla vehicle fire recently spread to a residential property in Tijuana, causing significant damage. The incident underscores the importance of the training that Tijuana firefighters are currently undergoing to handle such emergencies. These efforts are crucial not only for preventing property damage but also for saving lives in high-stake scenarios involving electric vehicles.
Furthermore, with the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles on the roads, the necessity for specialized training and preparedness among emergency responders becomes ever more critical. This training will equip firefighters with the knowledge and skills needed to manage the unique and complex challenges associated with electric vehicle fires, ensuring public safety and effective emergency response.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving topic and other local news at TJGringo.com.