Howard County and neighboring firefighters trained on removing burning electric vehicles, monitoring hazards and adapting tactics for high-risk EV fire incidents

COLUMBIA, Md. — The Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services recently conducted regional training at Howard Community College that focused on the challenges of electric vehicle (EV) fires.

The department posted on social media on March 6 that the special operations team led the training for fire department personnel and firefighters from several neighboring agencies, covering tactics and best practices for handling EV fires in complex settings such as parking garages.

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During the training, firefighters practiced removing a burning electric vehicle from a parking garage as well as using the department’s crane and a container designed to relocate the vehicle to a safer location.

The tactic of using a crane was recently used during an EV fire response on Interstate 95 in January. Firefighters also reviewed atmospheric monitoring equipment and discussed initial operations for suspected EV battery fires.

Officials said the training is needed because EV fires pose unique hazards, requiring different tactics and producing potentially dangerous vapors for responders and the public.

Because of those risks, departments may choose to move a burning EV to an isolated area rather than remain on scene for hours while working to control the fire. In parking garages, firefighters must also consider the potential for structural damage, collapse or fire extension into connected buildings.

The department thanked the Maryland State Police for assisting with the training and Howard Community College for providing space on its campus.

Participating agencies included the Baltimore County Fire Department, Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, Anne Arundel County Fire Department, Frederick County Fire & Rescue and the Maryland Department of the Environment.

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